2004 Subaru Outback vs. 2003 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Forester. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Forester would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Subaru Outback (166 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Forester. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Subaru Forester. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 225 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Subaru Outback | 2003 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | Outback | Forester |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 2456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
