1998 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (280 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 220 kg more than 1998 Mazda RX-7.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (315 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Outback. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Outback. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda RX-7 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:
| 1998 Mazda RX-7 | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-7 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 64 L |
