1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 11 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 395 kg more than 2009 Subaru Outback.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Subaru Outback. (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1435 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 |
