2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (250 HP) has 169 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 469 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (141 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 2 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 250 HP |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
