2003 Acura EL vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4
To start off, 2003 Acura EL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura EL (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2003 Acura EL.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura EL, 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (187 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura EL. (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura EL | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | EL | 230.4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2760 mm |
