2003 Acura RL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RL would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP) has 177 more horse power than 2003 Acura RL. (225 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 215 kg more than 2003 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura RL, 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 CLS (600 Nm) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RL. (313 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | CLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 402 HP |
| Torque | 313 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
