1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 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 (187 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Subaru Legacy.
Because 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. 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 (196 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru Legacy has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 318 | Legacy |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
