2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (52 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 792 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (63 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | E | R2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 30 L |
