2005 Subaru Outback vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Subaru Outback is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Subaru Outback (250 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Subaru Outback weights approximately 218 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2005 Subaru Outback (339 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (315 Nm). This means 2005 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Subaru Outback | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |
