2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1998 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura RL weights approximately 445 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | E | RL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
