2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1978 Subaru Rex

To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 471 more horse power than 1978 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 581 kg more than 1978 Subaru Rex. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Subaru Rex 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 1978 Subaru Rex. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500, 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 609 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Subaru Rex.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 1978 Subaru Rex
Make Ford Subaru
Model Shelby GT 500 Rex
Year Released 2008 1978
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 5409 cc 544 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 500 HP 29 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 651 Nm 42 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1116 kg 535 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 3000 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1300 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 1930 mm