1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 165 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Outback. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Outback. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SLK | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
