2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 6 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura RL weights approximately 30 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura RL. 1996 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | CLK | RL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2596 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| 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 | 88.3 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
