1972 Dodge Challenger vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1972 Dodge Challenger. (241 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1972 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 175 kg more than 1972 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Dodge Challenger 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 1972 Dodge Challenger. 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, 1972 Dodge Challenger (401 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura CL. (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura CL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Dodge Challenger | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Dodge | Acura |
| Model | Challenger | CL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5562 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2580 mm |
