2002 Acura RSX vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2002 Acura RSX is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RSX (158 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 258 kg more than 2002 Acura RSX.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX, 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura RSX | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RSX | 230 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 72 L |
