1998 Lexus ES vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1998 Lexus ES. (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 80 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 415 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1793 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2431 mm |
