1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2004 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Acura RL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura RL (225 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (151 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura RL weights approximately 310 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Acura RL, 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, 2004 Acura RL (313 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm). This means 2004 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 2004 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2004 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | C | RL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
