1989 Subaru XT vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Subaru XT would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1989 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 83 kg more than 1989 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Subaru XT 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Subaru XT. (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Subaru XT | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | XT | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
