1989 Subaru XT vs. 1979 Subaru DL
To start off, 1989 Subaru XT is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru DL would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Subaru XT (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1979 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Subaru XT weights approximately 224 kg more than 1979 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Subaru DL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Subaru XT 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, 1989 Subaru XT (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru DL. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Subaru XT | 1979 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | XT | DL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 60 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
