2005 Acura RL vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500

To start off, 2005 Acura RL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Acura RL (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500. (240 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura RL weights approximately 140 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 (401 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Acura RL. (353 Nm). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Acura RL.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Acura RL 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500
Make Acura Mercedes-Benz
Model RL 500
Year Released 2005 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3474 cc 4973 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 300 HP 240 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4750 RPM
Torque 353 Nm 401 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.8:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1760 kg 1620 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 5000 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2940 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 73 L 90 L