2003 Acura CL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 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, 2003 Acura CL (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 261 kg more than 2003 Acura CL.

Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura CL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura CL.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura CL 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
Make Acura Mercedes-Benz
Model CL E
Year Released 2003 2012
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3210 cc 3000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 223 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 3400 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 542 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 1600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1841 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 80 L