2003 Subaru R2 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru R2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru R2 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 800 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru R2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 481 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru R2 has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru R2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Subaru | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R2 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 70 L |
