1994 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Forester (228 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 275 kg more than 2008 Subaru Forester.
Because 2008 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Subaru Forester (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Forester |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
