1978 Subaru Rex vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1978 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1028 kg more than 1978 Subaru Rex. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Subaru Rex is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Subaru Rex. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Subaru Rex. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1978 Subaru Rex has manual transmission. 1978 Subaru Rex will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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