1997 Lexus LS vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus LS would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1997 Lexus LS. (280 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Lexus LS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Lexus LS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus LS. (398 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lexus LS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus LS | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LS | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3967 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 398 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 88 L |
