2009 Subaru Outback vs. 1998 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Passat 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 (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Outback weights approximately 358 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (226 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Subaru Outback | 1998 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1633 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
