1987 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (162 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 434 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 Legacy (226 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318. 2003 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1987 BMW 318 2003 Subaru Legacy
Make BMW Subaru
Model 318 Legacy
Year Released 1987 2003
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 2457 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 114 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 161 Nm 226 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 99.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 79 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 185 km/hour 201 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 966 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2680 mm