1974 BMW 3 vs. 1996 Subaru Outback
To start off, 1996 Subaru Outback is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Outback. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 23 kg more than 1996 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Outback. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Outback. 1996 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 1996 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2640 mm |
