2003 Subaru R2 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 600 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R2 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
