2003 Subaru Forester vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Subaru Forester is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,456 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Forester (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Forester weights approximately 18 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Forester (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Forester | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Forester | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2456 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
