1988 BMW 530 vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1988 BMW 530 is newer by 2 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 530 (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 315 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 1988 BMW 530 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 1988 BMW 530. 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, 1988 BMW 530 (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 530 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 530 | XT |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 67 mm |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1593 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
