2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1996 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 385 kg more than 1996 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Acura RL, 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 Viano (305 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | Viano | RL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 50 L |
