2006 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 2012 Subaru Outback

To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 382 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Subaru Outback (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. 2012 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chevrolet Cobalt 2012 Subaru Outback
Make Chevrolet Subaru
Model Cobalt Outback
Year Released 2006 2012
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2189 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 143 HP 256 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 335 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front AWD
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1266 kg 1648 kg
Fuel Consumption City 9.4 L/100km 13.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 117 L 70 L