1972 BMW 520 vs. 1979 Subaru DL
To start off, 1979 Subaru DL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1979 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 625 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 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. 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, 1972 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru DL. (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 1979 Subaru DL | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 520 | DL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
