2009 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 13 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 2,486 cc, 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Outback. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1996 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 Mazda 6 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Outback. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Outback. 1996 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 1996 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 6 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2486 cc | 2457 cc |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
