1996 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1996 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Subaru Outback. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 525 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1555 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
