1970 Rover P5B vs. 1986 Subaru XT

To start off, 1986 Subaru XT is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Rover P5B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Rover P5B would be higher. At 3,527 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Rover P5B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Rover P5B (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Rover P5B should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Rover P5B weights approximately 302 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Rover P5B is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Rover P5B. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1970 Rover P5B (295 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1970 Rover P5B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 1970 Rover P5B has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Rover P5B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Rover P5B 1986 Subaru XT
Make Rover Subaru
Model P5B XT
Year Released 1970 1986
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Size 3527 cc 2672 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 158 HP 147 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 295 Nm 211 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2800 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1278 kg
Vehicle Length 4750 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2470 mm