2001 Lexus RX vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus RX would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2001 Lexus RX. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus RX weights approximately 110 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2001 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus RX. (283 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus RX. 2001 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus RX | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
