2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 73 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Subaru Outback. (229 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
