2002 Lexus ES vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Lexus ES is newer by 4 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 3,314 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus ES (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus ES weights approximately 676 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2002 Lexus ES (325 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2002 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus ES | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3314 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2436 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
