1999 Lexus ES vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus ES would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1999 Lexus ES. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 495 kg more than 1999 Lexus ES. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 502 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus ES. (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus ES | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
