1998 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback is newer by 6 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Subaru Outback (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 290 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Subaru Outback 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, 2004 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, 2004 Subaru Outback (285 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 318 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
