1997 Lexus ES vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 11 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Lexus ES. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 290 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus ES | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
