2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Outback weights approximately 300 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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 (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda RX-8 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:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-8 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
