1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2003 Subaru Forester is newer by 32 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 45 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Forester. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Forester weights approximately 25 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Subaru Forester 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, 2003 Subaru Forester 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Forester. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Forester.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Forester |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 176 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 | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2530 mm |
