2008 BMW 550 vs. 1996 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Outback. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1996 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Outback. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Outback. 1996 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1996 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 550 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2640 mm |
