2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 876 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL, 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 SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1997 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Acura EL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
Model | SL | EL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 127 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1079 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4478 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1704 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1394 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2619 mm |