1997 Lexus ES vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus ES would be higher. At 3,222 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 395 kg more than 1997 Lexus ES.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 S (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus ES | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3222 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2970 mm |
