1998 Lexus ES vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 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 17 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (201 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2760 mm |
