2009 Acura RL vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz V 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 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 425 kg more than 2009 Acura RL.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. 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 (367 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. 2009 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1997 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | V |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3010 mm |
