2008 Honda Element vs. 1981 Subaru DL
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru DL would be higher. At 2,353 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 360 kg more than 1981 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Subaru DL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element 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 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru DL. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 1981 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Honda | Subaru |
| Model | Element | DL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2353 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
