2002 Acura RSX vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2002 Acura RSX is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RSX (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (130 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2002 Acura RSX.
Because 1987 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 1987 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (198 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RSX. (193 Nm). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RSX. 2002 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura RSX | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RSX | 230 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
