1974 Buick GS vs. 1981 Subaru DL
To start off, 1981 Subaru DL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Buick GS weights approximately 810 kg more than 1981 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Buick GS 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 Buick GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1974 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru DL. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Buick GS | 1981 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Buick | Subaru |
| Model | GS | DL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 394 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
