2003 Subaru Outback vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 9 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 830 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.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Outback. (225 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Outback. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru Outback will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Outback | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Subaru | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Outback | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2456 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2916 mm |
