2008 Subaru Forester vs. 1996 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Subaru Outback (165 HP) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Subaru Forester. (123 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2008 Subaru Forester.
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, 1996 Subaru Outback (221 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Subaru Forester. (184 Nm). This means 1996 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Subaru Forester.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Subaru Forester | 1996 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Subaru | Subaru |
| Model | Forester | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 99.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2530 mm |
