1974 BMW 518 vs. 1980 Subaru Coupe
To start off, 1980 Subaru Coupe is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Subaru Coupe. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1980 Subaru Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 518 weights approximately 322 kg more than 1980 Subaru Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Subaru Coupe, 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, 1974 BMW 518 (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Subaru Coupe. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Subaru Coupe. 1980 Subaru Coupe has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Subaru Coupe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 1980 Subaru Coupe | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 518 | Coupe |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 918 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
