2006 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2003 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 3 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, both vehicles can yield 162 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Subaru Outback.
Because 2003 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Hyundai Sonata. 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 (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Hyundai Sonata. (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Sonata | 2003 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Hyundai | Subaru |
| Model | Sonata | Outback |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.1 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 64 L |
