1986 Subaru XT vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 23 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 3,454 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 1303 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 2009 Toyota Highlander 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1986 Subaru XT has manual transmission. 1986 Subaru XT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Subaru XT | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Subaru | Toyota |
| Model | XT | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2672 cc | 3454 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 73 L |
