2003 Acura CL vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Acura CL. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura CL.

Because 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura CL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura CL.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura CL 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Acura Mercedes-Benz
Model CL SL
Year Released 2003 2010
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3210 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 223 HP 228 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4890 mm 4582 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1298 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2560 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 80 L