1966 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 280 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | SL | CL |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 65 L |
