2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback is newer by 3 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), 2012 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Outback (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Outback weights approximately 492 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2012 Subaru Outback (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 3 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1617 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.3 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.6 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
