2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura EL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 766 kg more than 1998 Acura EL.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura EL. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1998 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | SL | EL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 127 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2619 mm |
