2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura RL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1998 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 280 kg more than 1998 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | SL | RL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2650 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
