1978 BMW 730 vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1986 Subaru XT is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 730 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 232 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 1978 BMW 730 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 1978 BMW 730. 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, 1978 BMW 730 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 730 | XT |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2470 mm |
