1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 261 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. 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 1996 Mazda MX-3. 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 (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MX-3 | 2003 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-3 | Legacy |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2640 mm |
