2005 Subaru Outback vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Subaru Outback is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,455 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Subaru Outback weights approximately 250 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 2005 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Subaru Outback (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2005 Subaru Outback will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Subaru Outback | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Subaru | Mazda |
| Model | Outback | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2455 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
