1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2002 Subaru Legacy is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Legacy. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.

Because 2002 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Legacy. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Legacy. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Subaru Legacy has manual transmission. 2002 Subaru Legacy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW Z3 2002 Subaru Legacy
Make BMW Subaru
Model Z3 Legacy
Year Released 1996 2002
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 201 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 275 Nm 176 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1255 kg 1315 kg
Vehicle Length 4030 mm 4680 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2640 mm