2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 446 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | CLK | EL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2619 mm |
