1996 Ford Ranger vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 238 kg more than 1996 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Ranger. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Ranger | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
