1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2006 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2006 Subaru Outback is newer by 10 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Outback (250 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Subaru Outback weights approximately 377 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2006 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SLK | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1647 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
