2001 Acura RL vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2001 Acura RL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 85 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2001 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | 300 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 72 L |
