1978 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2013 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2013 Subaru Outback is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,600 cc (16 cylinders), 2013 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Subaru Outback (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Subaru Outback weights approximately 957 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Subaru Outback (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. 2013 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Polo | 2013 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Subaru |
| Model | Polo | Outback |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 1642 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 2050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2740 mm |
