2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 295 kg more than 2002 Subaru Outback.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 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 @ 3600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2004 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:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Outback |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1837 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
