1997 Lexus SC vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Lexus SC. (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Lexus SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 325 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus SC. (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SC | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 88 L |
