1997 Lexus SC 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 SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus SC 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 251 more horse power than 1997 Lexus SC. (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Lexus SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 585 kg more than 1997 Lexus SC. 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 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus SC. (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lexus SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus SC | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SC | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 88 L |
