2001 Lexus RX vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Lexus RX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2001 Lexus RX. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 185 kg more than 2001 Lexus RX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus RX. (283 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus RX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus RX | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
