2009 Subaru Outback vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Outback weights approximately 543 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Subaru Outback | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Subaru | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Outback | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 297 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
