1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Acura MDX
To start off, 2013 Acura MDX is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Acura MDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Acura MDX (300 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Acura MDX weights approximately 239 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Acura MDX is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Acura MDX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Acura MDX (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Acura MDX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | SL | MDX |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.2 |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2069 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4867 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2238 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1733 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
