1998 Lexus ES vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Lexus ES. (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 204 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3498 cc |
| 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 Bore Size | 86 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2770 mm |
