1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 2009 Subaru Outback. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Subaru Outback.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Subaru Outback. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Subaru Outback. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2009 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2009 Subaru Outback will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | S | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1750 mm |
