2003 Acura CL vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Acura CL. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 110 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2003 Acura CL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Acura CL | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | CL | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3210 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 223 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |