2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura RL weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1998 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | C | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
