1988 Lexus LS vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (241 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 25 kg more than 1988 Lexus LS.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lexus LS | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LS | S |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 3090 mm |
