2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Subaru Legacy. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (219 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Legacy. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru Legacy has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Mercedes-Benz S 2003 Subaru Legacy
Make Mercedes-Benz Subaru
Model S Legacy
Year Released 2002 2003
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4266 cc 2455 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Horse Power 275 HP 154 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 219 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 99.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 79 mm
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1895 kg 1495 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2660 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 64 L