2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. 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 (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
