2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 80 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Outback |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 64 L |
