1981 BMW 528 vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback is newer by 27 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Outback weights approximately 310 kg more than 1981 BMW 528. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Subaru Outback 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, 2008 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, 2008 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528. 2008 Subaru Outback 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. 2008 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 528 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
