2004 Acura TL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2004 Acura TL. (267 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Acura TL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 32 kg more than 2004 Acura TL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Acura TL. (323 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Acura TL. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Acura TL 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make Acura Mercedes-Benz
Model TL SLK
Year Released 2004 2012
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3210 cc 5500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 267 HP 415 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 323 Nm 539 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1578 kg 1610 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4102 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1793 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2431 mm
Fuel Consumption 7.8 L/100km 8.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 70 L