2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2008 Subaru Outback

To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Outback weights approximately 335 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback 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, 2008 Subaru Outback (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2. 2008 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mazda 2 2008 Subaru Outback
Make Mazda Subaru
Model 2 Outback
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1388 cc 2457 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 79 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 128 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4400 RPM
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1050 kg 1385 kg
Vehicle Length 3930 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1550 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 64 L