2004 BMW 525 vs. 1980 Subaru DL

To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Subaru DL would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1980 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1980 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1980 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 BMW 525 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Subaru DL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Subaru DL. (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Subaru DL. 2004 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1980 Subaru DL has manual transmission. 1980 Subaru DL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 525 1980 Subaru DL
Make BMW Subaru
Model 525 DL
Year Released 2004 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1296 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 189 HP 67 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1665 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2470 mm