2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Acura RL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP) has 285 more horse power than 2004 Acura RL. (225 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 280 kg more than 2004 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm) has 407 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Acura RL. (313 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | SL | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| 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 | 510 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 |
