1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Subaru Outback
To start off, 1996 Subaru Outback is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Subaru Outback (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Subaru Outback weights approximately 430 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Subaru Outback (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 1996 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 1996 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2640 mm |
