2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Acura TL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Acura TL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Acura TL would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1999 Acura TL. (226 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Acura TL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 415 kg more than 1999 Acura TL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Acura TL, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Acura TL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Acura TL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Acura TL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | S | TL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 226 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
