1998 Lexus ES vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 255 kg more than 1998 Lexus ES.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1998 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
