1997 Acura EL vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 451 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1997 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura EL | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | EL | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1079 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4478 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1704 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1394 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2619 mm | 2720 mm |
