2009 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Legacy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Legacy would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP) has 259 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Legacy. (155 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 1996 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Legacy 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 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Legacy. (210 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Legacy. 1996 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1996 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | M3 | Legacy |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 155 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2530 mm |
