1997 BMW Z3 vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 97 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Outback. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Outback. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | Z3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 64 L |
