1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2002 Acura CL. (260 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 600 kg more than 2002 Acura CL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura CL. (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura CL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | S | CL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5985 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 65 L |
