2009 Lexus LS vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (358 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Lexus LS.
Because 2009 Lexus LS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS will offer significantly more control. 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 LS (466 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus LS | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LS | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 358 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 466 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 80 L |
