1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2002 Acura CL. (260 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura CL. (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura CL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | C | CL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
