2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura RL weights approximately 285 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | SLK | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 0 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| 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 | 1390 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
