2006 Lexus GS vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2006 Lexus GS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 Lexus GS. (217 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus GS.

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, 2006 Lexus GS (294 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2006 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Lexus GS 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Lexus Mercedes-Benz
Model GS SL
Year Released 2006 1990
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2997 cc 2962 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 228 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 267 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 4600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 80 L