1991 BMW 518 vs. 1981 Subaru DL
To start off, 1991 BMW 518 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru DL would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 518 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1981 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 BMW 518 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 1991 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Subaru DL, 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, 1991 BMW 518 (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru DL. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1991 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 518 | 1981 Subaru DL | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 518 | DL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
