2003 Subaru B vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru B would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Subaru B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru B (389 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru B should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru B weights approximately 144 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru B is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru B 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, 2003 Subaru B (550 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Subaru B has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru B | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | B | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 550 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 | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2712 mm |
