1998 Lexus ES vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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) has 110 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 510 kg more than 1998 Lexus ES.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano. 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 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | Viano |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3210 mm |
