2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2010 Subaru Outback is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 14 kg more than 2010 Subaru Outback.
Because 2010 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Subaru Outback (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2010 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2500 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1669 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
