2006 Subaru Outback vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (250 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 729 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Subaru Outback | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 40 L |
