1971 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2003 Subaru Impreza is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Impreza (276 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2003 Subaru Impreza.
Because 2003 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza 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, 2003 Subaru Impreza (384 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2003 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 384 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2680 mm |
