2011 Subaru Outback vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Subaru Outback is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2011 Subaru Outback. (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2011 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Subaru Outback weights approximately 217 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2011 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Subaru Outback. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Subaru Outback. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2011 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2011 Subaru Outback will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Subaru Outback | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Outback | Golf |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1821 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1669 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2741 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
