1998 Lexus ES vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus ES would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Lexus ES. (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 200 kg more than 1998 Lexus ES. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | CLS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| 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 | 218 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 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
