2006 Subaru Outback vs. 1997 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (250 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1997 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 642 kg more than 1997 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Subaru Outback | 1997 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | Outback | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 297 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 60 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1647 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
