2004 Acura TL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Acura TL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Acura TL would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Acura TL. (267 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Acura TL.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Acura TL. (323 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Acura TL. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Acura TL has manual transmission. 2004 Acura TL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Acura TL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | TL | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
