1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback is newer by 10 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (245 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 175 kg more than 2008 Subaru Outback.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
