1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 1997 Subaru Impreza is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1997 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 216 kg more than 1997 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Subaru Impreza 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1144 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2530 mm |
