1979 Subaru DL vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru DL would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1979 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 570 kg more than 1979 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Subaru DL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru DL. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru DL. 2006 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1979 Subaru DL has manual transmission. 1979 Subaru DL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Subaru DL | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | DL | Outback |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 60 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2680 mm |
