2009 Lexus ES vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Lexus ES is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 41 more horse power than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (231 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 235 kg more than 2009 Lexus ES.
Because 1992 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (268 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus ES | 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 268 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
