2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura RL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1997 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 26 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura RL. (304 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1997 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | CLK | RL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1649 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
