1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Acura RL
To start off, 2002 Acura RL 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP) has 164 more horse power than 2002 Acura RL. (225 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 565 kg more than 2002 Acura RL. 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 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RL. (313 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | S | RL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 91 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2920 mm |
