2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Subaru Impreza

To start off, 2005 Subaru Impreza is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 2005 Subaru Impreza. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 505 kg more than 2005 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Impreza 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 516 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Subaru Impreza. (184 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Subaru Impreza.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 2005 Subaru Impreza
Make Mercedes-Benz Subaru
Model SL Impreza
Year Released 2003 2005
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5439 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 493 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 700 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Acceleration 0-100mph 4.7 seconds 10.2 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1955 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4420 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 13.5 L/100km 8.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 50 L