1986 Subaru XT vs. 2003 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2003 Subaru Outback is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Outback weights approximately 237 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Subaru XT. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Subaru Outback (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Subaru XT | 2003 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | XT | Outback |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2672 cc | 2456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
