2003 Acura EL vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura EL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2003 Acura EL. (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 480 kg more than 2003 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura EL. (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura EL. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura EL has manual transmission. 2003 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura EL | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | EL | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
