2003 Subaru R2 vs. 2005 BMW 520
To start off, 2005 BMW 520 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru R2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru R2 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 520 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (52 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 520 weights approximately 780 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 2005 BMW 520 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 2005 BMW 520. 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, 2005 BMW 520 (211 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (63 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2. 2005 BMW 520 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. 2005 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 2005 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Subaru | BMW |
| Model | R2 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 70 L |
