2005 Acura RL vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Acura RL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2005 Acura RL. (296 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 148 kg more than 2005 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. 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 SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 347 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Acura RL. (353 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RL | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1807 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
