1972 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Subaru Outback (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 311 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Subaru Outback (285 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
