2003 Subaru R2 vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta (53 HP) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1987 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R2 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 56 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2480 mm |
