1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 146 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 635 kg more than 2002 Acura CL.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Acura CL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
Model | S | CL |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2998 cc | 3210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6900 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2580 mm |