1974 Rover 3.5 vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1986 Subaru XT is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Rover 3.5 (149 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Rover 3.5 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Rover 3.5 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 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT, 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 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 1974 Rover 3.5 has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Rover 3.5 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Rover | Subaru |
| Model | 3.5 | XT |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3532 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 276 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2470 mm |
