2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 237 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 2004 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Subaru Outback (223 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 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 | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1253 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
