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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (178 HP) has 134 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP) 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 783 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Subaru R2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (371 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 313 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 | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 56 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 62 L |
