2003 Acura RSX vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RSX would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 469 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (351 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (192 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 2004 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RSX | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
