1990 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,455 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Outback weights approximately 75 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 518 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 518 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 194 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
