1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 210 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (305 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Subaru Outback. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Subaru |
| Model | Golf | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1555 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
