1988 Porsche 944 vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 944 (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Porsche 944 weights approximately 556 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Porsche 944 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 1988 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2, 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, 1988 Porsche 944 (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1988 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Porsche 944 | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Porsche | Subaru |
| Model | 944 | R2 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 104 mm | 56 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2370 mm |
