1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2007 Subaru Forester is newer by 9 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Subaru Forester (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2007 Subaru Forester 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, 2007 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, 2007 Subaru Forester (307 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Subaru Forester has manual transmission. 2007 Subaru Forester 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 | 2007 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Forester |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 307 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
