1996 Opel Frontera vs. 1981 Subaru DL
To start off, 1996 Opel Frontera is newer by 15 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Frontera (115 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Frontera should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Frontera weights approximately 1100 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 1996 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Subaru DL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Frontera 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 Opel Frontera (260 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru DL. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Frontera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Frontera | 1981 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Opel | Subaru |
| Model | Frontera | DL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1920 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2470 mm |
