2008 BMW 530 vs. 1986 Subaru XT

To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 217 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 530 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 2008 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT, 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, 2008 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 530 1986 Subaru XT
Make BMW Subaru
Model 530 XT
Year Released 2008 1986
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 2672 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 260 HP 147 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 211 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 242 km/hour 210 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1495 kg 1278 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L