2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2011 Subaru Outback is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Subaru Outback weights approximately 205 kg more than 2006 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda 6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Subaru Outback (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2011 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 6 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1669 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
