2003 Lexus ES vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (613 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 405 more horse power than 2003 Lexus ES. (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 390 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 701 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus ES. (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus ES. 2003 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus ES | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 613 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2585 mm |
