2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura RL weights approximately 169 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Acura RL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | ML | RL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 50 L |
