1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Subaru Impreza

To start off, 1999 Subaru Impreza is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1999 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 822 kg more than 1999 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Subaru Impreza. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Subaru Impreza has manual transmission. 1999 Subaru Impreza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 1999 Subaru Impreza
Make Mercedes-Benz Subaru
Model SL Impreza
Year Released 1998 1999
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3197 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Horse Power 224 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 128 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 91.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 60 mm
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 1008 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2530 mm