1981 Ford Fairlane vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (250 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fairlane. (124 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 149 kg more than 1981 Ford Fairlane. 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 1981 Ford Fairlane. 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 (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fairlane. (296 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fairlane | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Fairlane | Outback |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2680 mm |
