2009 Acura RL vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,664 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RL weights approximately 492 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL 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, 2009 Acura RL (271 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1852 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 65 L |
