1996 Lexus ES vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 395 more horse power than 1996 Lexus ES. (210 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1300 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 696 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lexus ES. (304 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lexus ES. 1996 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus ES | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 2830 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 |
