1985 Lotus Excel vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Subaru Outback (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Excel. (181 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Excel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 514 kg more than 1985 Lotus Excel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Lotus Excel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Subaru Outback (285 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Excel. (232 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Excel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Excel | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Excel | Outback |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1171 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 64 L |
