1997 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2011 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2011 Subaru Outback is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Subaru Outback (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1997 Toyota RAV4. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Subaru Outback weights approximately 308 kg more than 1997 Toyota RAV4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Subaru Outback (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota RAV4. (173 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota RAV4. 2011 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota RAV4 has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota RAV4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota RAV4 | 2011 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Toyota | Subaru |
| Model | RAV4 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1608 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1669 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2741 mm |
