2005 Subaru Legacy vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Subaru Legacy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Subaru Legacy would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Subaru Legacy (242 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 72 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Subaru Legacy. (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Legacy | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1358 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
