2001 Acura RL vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2001 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2001 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 214 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Acura RL. (304 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | SLK |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
