2002 Subaru Outback vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Outback. (224 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Outback. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Subaru Outback | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2480 mm |
