2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Lexus RX
To start off, 2012 Lexus RX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2012 Lexus RX. (270 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus RX weights approximately 50 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX, 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus RX. (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus RX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | SL | RX |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 73 L |
