1986 Subaru XT vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 26 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT.
Because 2012 BMW M5 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 BMW M5 (680 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT. 2012 BMW M5 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. 2012 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Subaru XT | 2012 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Subaru | BMW |
| Model | XT | M5 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2672 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1455 mm |
