2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Subaru Outback. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Subaru Outback weights approximately 135 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1996 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Outback. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Subaru Outback. 1996 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | A | Outback |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2640 mm |
