2005 Subaru Legacy vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 Subaru Legacy is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP) has 75 more horse power than 2005 Subaru Legacy. (163 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 148 kg more than 2005 Subaru Legacy. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Legacy 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Subaru Legacy. (226 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Subaru Legacy.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Subaru Legacy 2003 Volkswagen Golf
Make Subaru Volkswagen
Model Legacy Golf
Year Released 2005 2003
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2455 cc 3196 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 163 HP 238 HP
Torque 226 Nm 320 Nm
Engine Bore Size 99.5 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 96 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 11.3:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1400 kg 1548 kg
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 62 L