2003 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2009 Subaru Outback.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2009 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 520 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
