1986 Lotus Excel vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Excel (180 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Excel should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 313 kg more than 1986 Lotus Excel.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Lotus Excel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, both vehicles can yield 224 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Excel | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Excel | Outback |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1177 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 64 L |
