2005 Subaru Outback vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Subaru Outback 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 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Subaru Outback (250 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Subaru Outback weights approximately 430 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Subaru Outback 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 Outback 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, 2005 Subaru Outback (297 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm). This means 2005 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Subaru Outback | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 297 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1647 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
