Japan vs Germany — 1989 vs 1990
| Legacy B4 RSK Twin Turbo | 500E W124 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 326 hp |
| Torque | 253 lb-ft | 354 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,994 cc | 4,973 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 149 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,021 lbs | 3,770 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,650 mm | 2,800 mm |
| Length | 4,605 mm | 4,740 mm |
| Units Produced | 25,000 | 10,479 |
| Original MSRP | — | $75,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1989 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK Twin Turbo counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1989 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK Twin Turbo against the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus Germany. The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 326 hp compared to 280 hp, a 46-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Subaru Legacy uses a Flat-4 Twin-Turbocharged displacing 1,994 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz 500E relies on a V8 with 4,973 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. The Subaru Legacy carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 749 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 commands a significant premium over the 1989 Subaru Legacy B4 RSK Twin Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.