2003 Acura CL vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura CL would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2003 Acura CL. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 115 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura CL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura CL. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | CL | SLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3210 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 223 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
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 | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |