2001 Subaru Outback vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2001 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 58 kg more than 2001 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Subaru Outback. (223 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Subaru Outback. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 2001 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2001 Subaru Outback will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Subaru Outback | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2455 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
