2003 Acura RSX vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 673 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 2002 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Acura RSX | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | RSX | S |
Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 303 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 191 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 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 | 1895 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 88 L |