1971 BMW 3 vs. 1979 Subaru DL
To start off, 1979 Subaru DL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1979 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1979 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Subaru DL, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru DL. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru DL. 1979 Subaru DL has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Subaru DL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1979 Subaru DL | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | DL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 60 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2470 mm |
