2002 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (52 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 318 weights approximately 655 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (63 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2. 2002 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru R2 has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru R2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 318 | R2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 30 L |
