2009 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 6 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (256 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 70 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.

Because 2003 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, 2003 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 @ 3900 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (343 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Legacy. 2003 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. 2003 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW M3 2003 Subaru Legacy
Make BMW Subaru
Model M3 Legacy
Year Released 2009 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3999 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 414 HP 256 HP
Engine RPM 8300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 343 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.2 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1530 kg 1460 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4640 mm
Vehicle Width 1450 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 64 L