2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Subaru Outback. (256 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2012 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 163 kg more than 2012 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Subaru Outback. (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Subaru Outback. 2012 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Subaru |
| Model | Passat | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1822 kg | 1659 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
