1996 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2011 Subaru Forester is newer by 15 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Subaru Forester (170 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Subaru Forester weights approximately 28 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Subaru Forester is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Forester 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, 2011 Subaru Forester (236 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2011 Subaru Forester has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2011 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 520 | Forester |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4559 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2616 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
