1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2007 Subaru Outback 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 Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 222 kg more than 2007 Subaru Outback.
Because 2007 Subaru Outback 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 Outback 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 Outback (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Subaru Outback 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 Outback has manual transmission. 2007 Subaru Outback 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 Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
