2003 Subaru R2 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru R2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru R2 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 404 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.
Because 2003 Subaru R2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 56 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
