2003 Subaru Legacy vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (178 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 610 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 Legacy (196 Nm) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Subaru Legacy 1974 Volkswagen Golf
Make Subaru Volkswagen
Model Legacy Golf
Year Released 2003 1974
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1994 cc 1091 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 178 HP 47 HP
Engine RPM 6800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 196 Nm 85 Nm
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 69.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 8.0:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1620 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 45 L