2003 Acura RSX vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 584 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura RSX has manual transmission. 2003 Acura RSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RSX | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1806 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 88 L |
