1998 Mazda 626 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Outback weights approximately 439 kg more than 1998 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (226 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626. 2009 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 626 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 626 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
