1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Subaru Leone
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Subaru Leone. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Subaru Leone would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1980 Subaru Leone. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Subaru Leone. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1070 kg more than 1980 Subaru Leone. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Subaru Leone, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Subaru Leone. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Subaru Leone.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Subaru Leone | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | S | Leone |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2390 mm |
