2008 BMW 550 vs. 1981 Subaru Leone

To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru Leone. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru Leone would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1981 Subaru Leone. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru Leone. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 840 kg more than 1981 Subaru Leone. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Subaru Leone, 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru Leone. (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru Leone. 2008 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1981 Subaru Leone has manual transmission. 1981 Subaru Leone will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 550 1981 Subaru Leone
Make BMW Subaru
Model 550 Leone
Year Released 2008 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 1298 cc
Horse Power 360 HP 67 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 3870 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2390 mm