1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Subaru Outback
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Outback 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 78 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Subaru Outback weights approximately 235 kg more than 1998 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 1998 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1996 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 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:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1996 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
