2009 Mazda 6 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 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 6 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 88 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6.
Because 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 6. 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 (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (167 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6. 2012 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. 2012 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 6 | Outback |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2487 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
