1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Subaru Coupe

To start off, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Subaru Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Subaru Coupe would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1980 Subaru Coupe. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Subaru Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 772 kg more than 1980 Subaru Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Subaru Coupe, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Subaru Coupe. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Subaru Coupe.

Compare all specifications:

1990 Mercedes-Benz SL 1980 Subaru Coupe
Make Mercedes-Benz Subaru
Model SL Coupe
Year Released 1990 1980
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2962 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 67 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 267 Nm 114 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 918 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2470 mm