2008 Acura TL vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Acura TL is newer by 5 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 207 more horse power than 2008 Acura TL. (286 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Acura TL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 503 kg more than 2008 Acura TL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Acura TL 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, 2008 Acura TL 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 353 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Acura TL. (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Acura TL. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Acura TL has manual transmission. 2008 Acura TL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura TL | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | TL | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 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 | 286 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
