2003 Acura CL vs. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 6,834 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (283 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Acura CL. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 840 kg more than 2003 Acura CL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL, 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, 1975 Mercedes-Benz S (549 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura CL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1975 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura CL.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura CL 1975 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Acura Mercedes-Benz
Model CL S
Year Released 2003 1975
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3210 cc 6834 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 223 HP 283 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4250 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 549 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 2420 kg
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 4970 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2870 mm