2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Subaru Impreza

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Impreza would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Impreza. (276 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 750 kg more than 2003 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Impreza. (384 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Impreza. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru Impreza has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru Impreza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 2003 Subaru Impreza
Make Mercedes-Benz Subaru
Model SL Impreza
Year Released 2005 2003
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 1992 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 493 HP 276 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 800 Nm 384 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 87 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 8.0:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2040 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4420 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 50 L