1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2009 Subaru Impreza is newer by 12 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2009 Subaru Impreza. (169 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Subaru Impreza.
Because 2009 Subaru Impreza 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, 2009 Subaru Impreza 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 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Subaru Impreza. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Subaru Impreza. 2009 Subaru Impreza has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Subaru Impreza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
