1990 Mazda 626 vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 626. (116 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 185 kg more than 1990 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 626. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 626. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 626 | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 626 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
