2002 Lexus ES vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Lexus ES is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2002 Lexus ES. (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus ES weights approximately 196 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus ES. (325 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus ES | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3314 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2436 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2890 mm |
