1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Acura CL

To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. (238 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 195 kg more than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL, 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, 2003 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. (271 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 2003 Acura CL
Make Mercedes-Benz Acura
Model 300 CL
Year Released 1956 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2995 cc 3179 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 238 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6900 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 86 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1580 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4890 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 100 L 65 L