2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Outback weights approximately 323 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2003 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, 2003 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, 2003 Subaru Outback (223 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 2003 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Outback |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 64 L |
