1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 1998 Acura EL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1998 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 521 kg more than 1998 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Acura EL, 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | 420 | EL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2619 mm |
