2009 BMW 523 vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 23 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 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 287 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 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 523 | XT |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
