1989 Subaru Legacy vs. 1971 Subaru R-2
To start off, 1989 Subaru Legacy is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,820 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Subaru Legacy (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 680 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Subaru R-2 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 1971 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Subaru Legacy, 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, 1989 Subaru Legacy (145 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Subaru Legacy | 1971 Subaru R-2 | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | Legacy | R-2 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1820 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 1930 mm |
