2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1996 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 2 (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Impreza. (90 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 783 kg more than 1996 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Impreza 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, 2004 Mazda 2 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1996 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 2 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 60 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
