2003 Subaru Outback vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,456 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Outback weights approximately 114 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 2003 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Outback. (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Outback | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | GTI |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2456 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2578 mm |
