2005 Lexus ES vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus ES (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus ES weights approximately 170 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Lexus ES (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2005 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus ES | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
