2009 Acura RL vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2009 Acura RL. (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 429 kg more than 2009 Acura RL. 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Acura RL. (367 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 70 L |
