2002 Subaru Outback vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Subaru Outback 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 58 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 379 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Subaru Volkswagen
Model Outback New Beetle
Year Released 2002 2008
Body Type Station Wagon Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2998 cc 2480 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 208 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 288 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3750 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1610 kg 1231 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1590 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2520 mm