2008 BMW 523 vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Subaru Outback 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 (213 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 147 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. 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 2008 BMW 523. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 523 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 213 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1637 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
