2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Lexus RX
To start off, 2011 Lexus RX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2011 Lexus RX. (275 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 60 kg more than 2011 Lexus RX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus RX. (348 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus RX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | SL | RX |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5437 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 348 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 73 L |
