1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2000 Subaru Impreza

To start off, 2000 Subaru Impreza is newer by 2 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 2000 Subaru Impreza. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2000 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 945 kg more than 2000 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Subaru Impreza, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Subaru Impreza. (143 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Subaru Impreza. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2000 Subaru Impreza has manual transmission. 2000 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 2000 Subaru Impreza
Make Mercedes-Benz Subaru
Model SL Impreza
Year Released 1998 2000
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5987 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 389 HP 94 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 570 Nm 143 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2050 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2530 mm