1998 Mercedes-Benz V vs. 2011 Lexus GS
To start off, 2011 Lexus GS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus GS (342 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 211 kg more than 2011 Lexus GS.
Because 2011 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 Lexus GS (459 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. 2011 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz V | 2011 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | V | GS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1789 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4826 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2850 mm |
