1988 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Subaru Outback. (212 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 485 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | M3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
