2003 Subaru R2 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (52 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1527 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (63 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R2 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 70 L |
