2002 Subaru Outback vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 435 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (288 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Subaru Outback | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |
