2002 Subaru Outback vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 144 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Outback. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Outback. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
