2003 Subaru R2 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 8 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Subaru | BMW |
| Model | R2 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 56 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 70 L |
