VS
At a Glance
Power
386hp @ 5200
271hp @ 5600
Torque
398lb-ft @ 1900
258lb-ft @ 2000
Engine
3.0 L/183cc
2.4 L/146cc
Choosing between the BMW 3 Series and the Subaru WRX is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW 3 Series delivers 386hp @ 5200 while the Subaru WRX produces 271hp @ 5600. Pricing starts at $47,500 for the 3 Series and $44,995 for the WRX. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
386hp @ 5200
271hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
398lb-ft @ 1900
258lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.0 L/183cc
2.4 L/146cc
Engine Layout
Inline
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
—
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
27mpg
18mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
33mpg
25mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.6gal
16.6gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
185.9in
183.8in
Width (in)
71.9in
71.9in
Height (in)
56.4in
57.8in
Wheelbase (in)
112.5in
105.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3896lbs
3560lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Subaru WRX
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
WRX
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
BMW 3 Series
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Subaru WRX
Lower starting price ($44,995)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the 3 Series or WRX?
The 3 Series produces 386hp @ 5200 and 398lb-ft @ 1900 of torque while the WRX delivers 271hp @ 5600 and 258lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the 3 Series and WRX?
The 3 Series starts from $47,500 and the WRX from $44,995. The WRX is cheaper by $2,505 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the 3 Series or the WRX?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider