2009 Subaru Outback vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Subaru Outback | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
