1996 BMW 530 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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (245 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 BMW 530. (193 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Outback weights approximately 99 kg more than 1996 BMW 530. 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 1996 BMW 530. 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 (292 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 530. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 530. 2009 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 530 2009 Subaru Outback
Make BMW Subaru
Model 530 Outback
Year Released 1996 2009
Body Type Station Wagon Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2793 cc 2999 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 193 HP 245 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 292 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 89.2 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 79 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1515 kg 1614 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 64 L