2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 10 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1997 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | CLK | RL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
