1988 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 34 kg more than 2012 Subaru Outback.
Because 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Subaru Outback (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2012 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2012 Subaru Outback will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 520 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1536 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.5 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
