2003 Lexus LS vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM
To start off, 2003 Lexus LS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM would be higher. At 5,000 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM (664 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 382 more horse power than 2003 Lexus LS. (282 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus LS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus LS weights approximately 420 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM (773 Nm) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus LS. (418 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus LS. 2003 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus LS | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK LM | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LS | CLK LM |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 664 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 418 Nm | 773 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 60 L |
