2003 Subaru Outback vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Outback. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Outback | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Subaru | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Outback | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
