1996 Lexus ES vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus ES weights approximately 95 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES, 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, 1996 Lexus ES (304 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 1996 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus ES | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
