Forester vs. Outback

I would buy the one my wife prefers. If a bit better clearance and easier entry and exit are important, go with the Forrester. I have a 98 OBW and when I have the money I will buy a Forrester because I prefer the better offroadability of the Forrester.

Uhhhm, the OBW actually has better ground clearance (about 1/2 inch) than the Forrester.

Though not so good clearance angles front and back, from what I've read here.

"Alan" wrote

I thought I had read that, but subaru.com gives ground clearance for all Forester models as 7.5 inches and 7.3 inches for the 4-cylinder OBW. All the H6s are reported as 7.9 inches. What's with that? More power...must ride higher?

I think the clearance measurement is drivetrain related. I wonder how the sill clearances compare. Putting your wheel on a rock will avoid the differential and sump, but could whack the rocker panel after you come down. Must take my tape measure when I next go to the store. If you see some looney in the parking lot with a tape measure next to your OBW, please don't shoot.

None of these vehicles should really be intentionally taken to where you need to worry about it.

Alan,

It would seem that you know little about offroad driving. I also have a Suzuki Sierra that only has 185mm ground clearance with the same size wheels that my OBW has but I assure you that my Suzuki will go far further over much more difficult terain.

The Forester will also go many more places that the OBW will because of the following contributing factors.

1. Shorter wheelbase.
2. Better takeoff angle.
3. Better departure angle.
4. Higher drivers seat position allowing better forward view.
5. I will put chunkier tyres on the Forester to replace the H/T's.

Cheers.

Pete D

True. Just don't call me when you get stuck. :)

Ummm, okay.