2008 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Legacy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Legacy would be higher. At 2,979 cc, 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2003 Subaru Legacy. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (219 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Legacy. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru Legacy has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 2003 Subaru Legacy
Make BMW Subaru
Model X3 Legacy
Year Released 2008 2003
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 2455 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 228 HP 154 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 219 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.6 mm 99.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 79 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1765 kg 1495 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2660 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 9.4 L/100km 6.1 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 12.1 L/100km 9.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 64 L