1971 Subaru R-2 vs. 1980 Subaru DL
To start off, 1980 Subaru DL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Subaru DL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Subaru DL (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Subaru DL should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Subaru DL weights approximately 360 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1980 Subaru DL (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Subaru DL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Subaru R-2 | 1980 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | R-2 | DL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2470 mm |
