1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Subaru Outback

To start off, 1999 Subaru Outback is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Subaru Outback weights approximately 620 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Subaru Outback (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1999 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Mazda 323 1999 Subaru Outback
Make Mazda Subaru
Model 323 Outback
Year Released 1989 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1324 cc 2457 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Horse Power 66 HP 154 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 102 Nm 223 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 870 kg 1490 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1660 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1550 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2660 mm