2003 Subaru R2 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 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), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 677 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R2 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 56 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1477 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 70 L |
