1998 Subaru Impreza vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Outback weights approximately 370 kg more than 1998 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Subaru Outback (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Subaru Impreza | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |
