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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 331 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (162 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 683 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 (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 575 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (226 Nm @ 4000 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 Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 2458 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Horse Power 493 HP 162 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 801 Nm 226 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 100 mm
Engine Stroke Size 87 mm 79 mm
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2135 kg 1452 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4730 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 64 L