2001 Acura RL vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2001 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 80 kg more than 2001 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Acura RL. 2001 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | RL | SL |
Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3472 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 205 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |