1996 Lexus ES vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Lexus ES. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 225 kg more than 1996 Lexus ES. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus ES | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
