Dodge charger vs subaru legacy: fuel efficiency, handling, and style compared

The automotive industry is a vast and ever-evolving landscape, with manufacturers constantly vying for dominance. Two formidable contenders in the realm of sedans are the Dodge Charger and the Subaru Legacy. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of performance, style, and practicality, but they cater to distinct tastes and priorities. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each sedan, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and the factors that set them apart.

Performance

Engine and Power:
The Dodge Charger reigns supreme in terms of raw power, boasting a formidable 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine that unleashes 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Subaru Legacy offers a more modest 2.5-liter boxer-four engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

Acceleration and Top Speed:
The Charger’s superior power translates into blistering acceleration, reaching 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The Legacy, on the other hand, takes a more leisurely 8.4 seconds to achieve the same milestone. The Charger’s top speed is also significantly higher, at 196 mph compared to the Legacy’s 135 mph.

Handling and Braking:
Both sedans offer competent handling, but the Charger’s rear-wheel drive layout provides a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. The Legacy, with its all-wheel drive system, excels in inclement weather conditions and provides greater stability on slippery surfaces. The Charger’s larger brakes offer superior stopping power, while the Legacy’s advanced safety features, such as EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, enhance overall safety.

Interior

Space and Comfort:
The Dodge Charger offers a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The front seats are supportive and provide excellent visibility. The Subaru Legacy‘s interior is slightly more compact, but it still offers comfortable seating for five adults.

Materials and Design:
The Charger’s interior features high-quality materials and a stylish design. The dashboard is well-laid out and easy to use, while the infotainment system is intuitive and responsive. The Legacy’s interior is more utilitarian, with a focus on practicality and durability. The materials are of good quality, but the overall design is less visually appealing.

Features and Technology:
Both sedans offer a generous array of features, including heated seats, a sunroof, and a rearview camera. The Charger’s higher trim levels boast a premium Harman Kardon audio system, a 12-inch touchscreen display, and a variety of advanced safety features. The Legacy’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, is a standout feature.

Exterior

Style and Presence:
The Dodge Charger exudes an aggressive and muscular stance that commands attention. Its sleek lines, imposing grille, and muscular hood give it a distinctly sporty and assertive character. The Subaru Legacy, in contrast, has a more understated and sophisticated appearance. Its clean lines, subtle curves, and elegant grille convey a sense of refinement and stability.

Dimensions and Ground Clearance:
The Charger is the larger of the two sedans, measuring 198 inches in length, 75 inches in width, and 59 inches in height. The Legacy is slightly smaller, with dimensions of 188 inches in length, 73 inches in width, and 59 inches in height. The Charger’s ground clearance is 5.1 inches, while the Legacy’s is 8.7 inches, giving it a significant advantage in rough terrain.

Fuel Economy and Emissions

Fuel Consumption:
The Dodge Charger‘s powerful engine comes at the expense of fuel economy. Its EPA-estimated fuel consumption is 16 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The Subaru Legacy, with its smaller engine and all-wheel drive system, offers superior fuel efficiency, with EPA estimates of 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Emissions:
The Charger’s V8 engine produces higher emissions than the Legacy’s boxer-four engine. The Charger’s CO2 emissions are estimated at 323 grams per mile, while the Legacy’s emissions are estimated at 220 grams per mile.

Price and Value

Base Price:
The 2023 Dodge Charger SXT has a starting price of $31,495, while the 2023 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Base has a starting price of $23,945.

Value Proposition:
The Dodge Charger offers exceptional performance and a spacious interior at a competitive price. The Subaru Legacy, on the other hand, provides greater fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, and all-wheel drive capability for a lower price. The choice between the two sedans ultimately depends on the buyer’s priorities and budget.

Final Thoughts

The Dodge Charger and the Subaru Legacy are two compelling sedans that cater to distinct tastes and needs. The Charger is the ideal choice for performance enthusiasts who crave raw power and a muscular stance. The Legacy, on the other hand, is better suited for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency, safety, and all-weather capability. Ultimately, the decision between these two titans depends on the individual’s driving habits, lifestyle, and financial constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which car has a more powerful engine?
The Dodge Charger has a more powerful engine, with 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque compared to the Subaru Legacy‘s 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

2. Which car has a better fuel economy?
The Subaru Legacy has a better fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the Dodge Charger’s 16 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

3. Which car has a more spacious interior?
The Dodge Charger has a more spacious interior, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.

4. Which car has a better safety rating?
Both the Dodge Charger and the Subaru Legacy have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

5. Which car is more expensive?
The Dodge Charger is more expensive than the Subaru Legacy, with a starting price of $31,495 compared to the Legacy’s starting price of $23,945.