2003 Lexus ES vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 2003 Lexus ES. (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus ES weights approximately 335 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 532 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus ES. (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus ES | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3170 mm |
