1997 Lexus SC vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus SC (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. (217 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 205 kg more than 1997 Lexus SC.
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, 1997 Lexus SC (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus SC | 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SC | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
