2003 Subaru Impreza vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Impreza (246 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 72 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza 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 Impreza (333 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Impreza | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impreza | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
