1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Lexus GX
To start off, 2012 Lexus GX is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus GX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus GX (301 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GX should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus GX weights approximately 432 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Lexus GX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Lexus GX (446 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus GX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Lexus GX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | S | GX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 446 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 2422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4806 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1875 mm |
