2008 Mazda 5 vs. 2012 Subaru Outback

To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 5 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 5. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 38 kg more than 2008 Mazda 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 5 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Subaru Outback. (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Subaru Outback. 2012 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 5 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mazda 5 2012 Subaru Outback
Make Mazda Subaru
Model 5 Outback
Year Released 2008 2012
Body Type Minivan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 141 HP 256 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 360 Nm 335 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front AWD
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1610 kg 1648 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 70 L