BanCoe Hypersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Essentially, i think in today's context, cars have come a long way. In this luxury sedan segment, i do not think there is a lousy car or one that's worth condemnation. It is down to the choice of the buyer to make a decision that he is comfortable to live with. Different strokes for different folks. It is great to see that each manufacturer has their own identity in what makes the brand unique or stronger. It just boils down to the driver's preferences and choice. Both the Merc and Lexus are fine choices and i think no one will question the choice you make at the end of the day. Go for a long test drive in both and see which one you'd prefer to live with on a daily basis. Fully Agree with you ; I was eyeing the Merc and when my son was Test driving it (of course SE will seat next to driver) and I was at the back seat I felt the road noise was quite loud compared to the Lexus, asked the SE why he said the Merc (cant remember if it was the 200 or 250) he said it was low profile tyres- i felt it a little strange as an answer and anyway the hump at the back (in case you have 3 pax at the back seat - center person legs will have to split ) and also the service Credits that they give 3K - i was told they exhaust very fast whilst Lexus gave a 3 year free service without any conditions $0/- all the way of course below 100K km ; so far 1 1/2 years on and I paid $0/- for service each time- so this were my choice of decisions ; though I know I am paying more road tax for the lexus @2.5L compared to mercs 1.8L engine; though the latter was about 25-$30K more in cost ↡ Advertisement 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Thaiyotakamli Supersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Fully Agree with you ; I was eyeing the Merc and when my son was Test driving it (of course SE will seat next to driver) and I was at the back seat I felt the road noise was quite loud compared to the Lexus, asked the SE why he said the Merc (cant remember if it was the 200 or 250) he said it was low profile tyres- i felt it a little strange as an answer and anyway the hump at the back (in case you have 3 pax at the back seat - center person legs will have to split ) and also the service Credits that they give 3K - i was told they exhaust very fast whilst Lexus gave a 3 year free service without any conditions $0/- all the way of course below 100K km ; so far 1 1/2 years on and I paid $0/- for service each time- so this were my choice of decisions ; though I know I am paying more road tax for the lexus @2.5L compared to mercs 1.8L engine; though the latter was about 25-$30K more in cost hump in back no choice as E200 is RWD while ES is FWD. For better handling need to compromise some space behind. Lexus is more to carry passengers with comfy seat and silent ride. merc is half bmw half lexus 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Meloble 2nd Gear May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Fully Agree with you ; I was eyeing the Merc and when my son was Test driving it (of course SE will seat next to driver) and I was at the back seat I felt the road noise was quite loud compared to the Lexus, asked the SE why he said the Merc (cant remember if it was the 200 or 250) he said it was low profile tyres- i felt it a little strange as an answer and anyway the hump at the back (in case you have 3 pax at the back seat - center person legs will have to split ) and also the service Credits that they give 3K - i was told they exhaust very fast whilst Lexus gave a 3 year free service without any conditions $0/- all the way of course below 100K km ; so far 1 1/2 years on and I paid $0/- for service each time- so this were my choice of decisions ; though I know I am paying more road tax for the lexus @2.5L compared to mercs 1.8L engine; though the latter was about 25-$30K more in cost Low profile tyre means more road noise? That SE is definitely not in the know at all. There are heaps of sporty low profile tyres of various brands that can deliver a premium and quiet ride as well. Does not mean that high profile tyres are 'Noisy'... If he mentioned that the ride is compromised on low profile tyres it is still acceptable... But noise? Hahaha. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Meloble 2nd Gear May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 hump in back no choice as E200 is RWD while ES is FWD. For better handling need to compromise some space behind. Lexus is more to carry passengers with comfy seat and silent ride. merc is half bmw half lexus I don't see the stereotype of having RWD>FWD. It is a case by case application. Can't quote that a BMW 1 series hatch has better 'handling' than a Ford Focus RS / Renault Megane RS / Civic Type R. It is all subjective and based on what the purpose is for. For the E Class, because it has a range of engines from the base E200 2.0L all the way up to the E63 Twin Turbo V8 (AWD Option). Clearly it has RWD fit for the purpose of handling stronger powerplants. If handling for Benz is all that matters, i don't think they will have the A/B/CLA/GLA (FWD) class of cars. For the ES, FWD suits the nature of the car where majority of the buyers globally buy it for its serene environment, simple mechanicals and gets the job done. FWD is simpler, more cost effective to manufacture and the cost savings can be translated to the people buying the car. The ES is indeed more affordable than the E Class but in no way do i see it as FWD is inferior to RWD. Sadly, this is the mindset of many where they just think RWD is superior to FWD. There is a purpose for every drivetrain layout and there are pros and cons to each. 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
BanCoe Hypersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 hump in back no choice as E200 is RWD while ES is FWD. For better handling need to compromise some space behind. Lexus is more to carry passengers with comfy seat and silent ride. merc is half bmw half lexus Agreed but i read in forums that really FWD is OK for Singapore but RWD is good for countries with snowy conditions and I guess the weight ratio might be compromised a little but I'm just buying a regular car not a sports car and in Singapore roads we cant appreciate this small advantage (i might be wrong here) Even Audi A6 if FWD and I asked the SE why there is a hump, he told me other countries use RWD so Audi makes all the same too; so that put me off here again Low profile tyre means more road noise? That SE is definitely not in the know at all. There are heaps of sporty low profile tyres of various brands that can deliver a premium and quiet ride as well. Does not mean that high profile tyres are 'Noisy'... If he mentioned that the ride is compromised on low profile tyres it is still acceptable... But noise? Hahaha. Yes I know he was talking smart and I didnt buy it, some times people whom are silly cant convince try to confuse 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Steptronic Supercharged May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Do not agree. Drive ES, E and 5er (all base models), then tell me the difference! I don't see the stereotype of having RWD>FWD. It is a case by case application. Can't quote that a BMW 1 series hatch has better 'handling' than a Ford Focus RS / Renault Megane RS / Civic Type R. It is all subjective and based on what the purpose is for. For the E Class, because it has a range of engines from the base E200 2.0L all the way up to the E63 Twin Turbo V8 (AWD Option). Clearly it has RWD fit for the purpose of handling stronger powerplants. If handling for Benz is all that matters, i don't think they will have the A/B/CLA/GLA (FWD) class of cars. For the ES, FWD suits the nature of the car where majority of the buyers globally buy it for its serene environment, simple mechanicals and gets the job done. FWD is simpler, more cost effective to manufacture and the cost savings can be translated to the people buying the car. The ES is indeed more affordable than the E Class but in no way do i see it as FWD is inferior to RWD. Sadly, this is the mindset of many where they just think RWD is superior to FWD. There is a purpose for every drivetrain layout and there are pros and cons to each. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Thaiyotakamli Supersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Low profile tyre means more road noise? That SE is definitely not in the know at all. There are heaps of sporty low profile tyres of various brands that can deliver a premium and quiet ride as well. Does not mean that high profile tyres are 'Noisy'... If he mentioned that the ride is compromised on low profile tyres it is still acceptable... But noise? Hahaha. Normally road noise due to type of tyre. My audi last time has bad road noise as the factory tyre is sport and suitable for wet road condition. Despite loud road noise, the grip is much better. Another factor to consider is the size of the tyre. Bigger size would increase slightly on the road noise Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wt_know Supersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 generally, low profile tyres are noisier ... this is a fair statement however, how loud or how quiet depends on brand, rft or non-rft, performance, grip, thread design, measurement/size, etc Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
inlinesix Hypersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Agreed but i read in forums that really FWD is OK for Singapore but RWD is good for countries with snowy conditions and I guess the weight ratio might be compromised a little but I'm just buying a regular car not a sports car and in Singapore roads we cant appreciate this small advantage (i might be wrong here) Even Audi A6 if FWD and I asked the SE why there is a hump, he told me other countries use RWD so Audi makes all the same too; so that put me off here again Yes I know he was talking smart and I didnt buy it, some times people whom are silly cant convince try to confuse Why FWD is ok in Sg & not RWD? RWD is not suitable for high power vehicles with Snowy conditions. SE is definitely not wrong to say that low profile tyre does increase NVH. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
BanCoe Hypersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Why FWD is ok in Sg & not RWD? RWD is not suitable for high power vehicles with Snowy conditions. SE is definitely not wrong to say that low profile tyre does increase NVH. Bro - I am not sure myself but just sharing ; I did some read up back then (can't remember all the techno stuff) Anyway sometimes when buying something we have something in our minds fixed up and we give other models just the benefit of doubt; I don't clock much mileage in a year, maybe about 10k and its just short drives so i did not bother much about FWD or RWD except whichever car had a hump at the back was a No No for me; which Audi/Merc had a hump though Audi was a FWD All I remember the minute he said low profile tyres.... cost of the tyres came into my mind as I remember they used to be quite expensive compared to normal tyres.... maybe they might have come down over time in the last 2-3 years or so End of the day I rent the car from the govt. for 10 years... I don't own it like freehold land , 10 years fly very fast ... all cars are good; Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jq1988 4th Gear May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 (edited) Sure, continue Merz. Sure no regret!!! Edited May 21, 2015 by Jq1988 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Meloble 2nd Gear May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Do not agree. Drive ES, E and 5er (all base models), then tell me the difference! I have never for once mentioned that the ES will drive better than the E or 5 series. Indeed the E class and 5 series will drive better and handle corners with much more confidence that the soft pillowy ES. I am just saying that there is INDEED a difference and each is BUILT FOR PURPOSE. If handling is so important to you, the 5 series is definitely a class act and has been since the beginning of RWD luxury sedans. No one can dispute that fact internationally. All i am saying is that each has its own merits and its purpose. I just said that it does not mean that RWD is 'better' than FWD. Peace. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RadX Moderator May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 I have never for once mentioned that the ES will drive better than the E or 5 series. Indeed the E class and 5 series will drive better and handle corners with much more confidence that the soft pillowy ES. I am just saying that there is INDEED a difference and each is BUILT FOR PURPOSE. If handling is so important to you, the 5 series is definitely a class act and has been since the beginning of RWD luxury sedans. No one can dispute that fact internationally. All i am saying is that each has its own merits and its purpose. I just said that it does not mean that RWD is 'better' than FWD. Peace. valid points and to each his own. I for one, stick to RWD as hv been used to it for the longest time and the handling characteristics are different. Driven a few FWD cars, and could be the driving or cornering style, but do not feel sure footed as RWDs. Stil prefer independent powertrain/steering principles Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
inlinesix Hypersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Bro - I am not sure myself but just sharing ; I did some read up back then (can't remember all the techno stuff) Anyway sometimes when buying something we have something in our minds fixed up and we give other models just the benefit of doubt; I don't clock much mileage in a year, maybe about 10k and its just short drives so i did not bother much about FWD or RWD except whichever car had a hump at the back was a No No for me; which Audi/Merc had a hump though Audi was a FWD All I remember the minute he said low profile tyres.... cost of the tyres came into my mind as I remember they used to be quite expensive compared to normal tyres.... maybe they might have come down over time in the last 2-3 years or so End of the day I rent the car from the govt. for 10 years... I don't own it like freehold land , 10 years fly very fast ... all cars are good; I believe GS, IS & LS also got hump. Sharing the correct information is good. For ppl who used to drive Lexus, it is hard to switch to Merc other than for the 3 pointed star. I know Lexus is fuss free car. Sometime 16 inch tyre also can be expensive depending on the quality of the tyre. My previous ride, BMW 520 wears 225/55 16. It can be as low as $128 to $258 for Michelin Premacy HP. My current ride wears 205/45 17. It can be as low as $168 to $258 for Michelin PS3. My current ride is also low mileage similar to yours. The difference is i drive a lot on Sunday. i find reasons to drive around because i enjoy driving. It is not necessary that you rent it for 10 yrs. You have a choice to renew it further. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lala81 Hypersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 Agreed but i read in forums that really FWD is OK for Singapore but RWD is good for countries with snowy conditions and I guess the weight ratio might be compromised a little but I'm just buying a regular car not a sports car and in Singapore roads we cant appreciate this small advantage (i might be wrong here) Even Audi A6 if FWD and I asked the SE why there is a hump, he told me other countries use RWD so Audi makes all the same too; so that put me off here again Yes I know he was talking smart and I didnt buy it, some times people whom are silly cant convince try to confuse Audi the hump is for AWD variant, the quattro. AWD will be good in countries with 4 months of winter. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
BanCoe Hypersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 I believe GS, IS & LS also got hump. Sharing the correct information is good. For ppl who used to drive Lexus, it is hard to switch to Merc other than for the 3 pointed star. I know Lexus is fuss free car. Sometime 16 inch tyre also can be expensive depending on the quality of the tyre. My previous ride, BMW 520 wears 225/55 16. It can be as low as $128 to $258 for Michelin Premacy HP. My current ride wears 205/45 17. It can be as low as $168 to $258 for Michelin PS3. My current ride is also low mileage similar to yours. The difference is i drive a lot on Sunday. i find reasons to drive around because i enjoy driving. It is not necessary that you rent it for 10 yrs. You have a choice to renew it further. As the topic discussion was with ES250 hence mine is FWD ; and choose it as what you mentioned - a fuss free car Yes both of this 2 marques can outlive over the 10 year period; To renew for 10 years again you are paying rental all over again (unless if it (COE) goes like below $1,000) then everyone in SGP will automatically renew their cars be it any brand too Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
inlinesix Hypersonic May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 As the topic discussion was with ES250 hence mine is FWD ; and choose it as what you mentioned - a fuss free car Yes both of this 2 marques can outlive over the 10 year period; To renew for 10 years again you are paying rental all over again (unless if it (COE) goes like below $1,000) then everyone in SGP will automatically renew their cars be it any brand too In Sg, when COE goes below $10k, ppl will change car every 3 yrs in the pretext of higher maintenance cost. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Damienic 5th Gear May 21, 2015 Share May 21, 2015 On the subject of FWD vs RWD, I always get feedback from MCFers here that RWD definitely is better than FWD. When the CLA was first launched and I went to test drive the car, many forumers were telling me this car cannot make it as it is FWD compared to RWD for the C class. ↡ Advertisement Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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