2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,796 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 146 kg more than 1998 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Acura EL, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura EL. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1998 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | C | EL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1600 cc |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2619 mm |
