2003 Lexus ES vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus ES would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 2003 Lexus ES. (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 420 kg more than 2003 Lexus ES. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus ES. (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus ES | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
