1997 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2013 Subaru Outback is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2013 Subaru Outback. (171 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Subaru Outback weights approximately 256 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 2013 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, both vehicles can yield 236 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2013 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2013 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | M3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1556 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
