1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2004 Subaru Forester is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2004 Subaru Forester. (210 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 306 kg more than 2004 Subaru Forester. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Subaru Forester. (319 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Subaru Forester.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Forester |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1463 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
