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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 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 200 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 @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 | 2799 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
