1972 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2001 Subaru Outback is newer by 29 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 2,455 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Subaru Outback weights approximately 45 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Subaru Outback (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2001 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 520 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
