1981 BMW 528 vs. 1996 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 1996 Subaru Legacy is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Legacy. (155 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 110 kg more than 1981 BMW 528.
Because 1996 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Legacy 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Legacy. (210 Nm). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Legacy. 1996 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 528 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 528 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 1996 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 528 | Legacy |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 155 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 99.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2530 mm |
