1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Acura RSX
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. Both 1996 Mercedes-Benz E and 2003 Acura RSX are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 258 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX, 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, 2003 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 2003 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | E | RSX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1222 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
