1988 BMW 525 vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (250 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 56 kg more than 2006 Subaru Outback.
Because 2006 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 525 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2441 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
