1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Subaru Impreza

To start off, 1998 Subaru Impreza is newer by 27 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 1998 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 355 kg more than 1998 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 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, 1998 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 1998 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 1998 Subaru Impreza.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 1998 Subaru Impreza
Make Mercedes-Benz Subaru
Model SL Impreza
Year Released 1971 1998
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
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 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1005 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2530 mm