2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 181 kg more than 2002 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Outback |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2660 mm |
