1996 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 520. 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 (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 520 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
