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 (250 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 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 324 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 148 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
