1997 Acura NSX vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura NSX would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1997 Acura NSX. (272 HP @ 7300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura NSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura NSX weights approximately 130 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura NSX. (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura NSX. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura NSX has manual transmission. 1997 Acura NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Acura NSX | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | NSX | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 272 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 284 Nm | 630 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2570 mm |