2009 Lexus ES vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Lexus ES is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus ES (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 Lexus ES.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Lexus ES (345 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus ES | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 85 L |
