From the December 1996 issue of Car and Driver.

Good tidings await shoppers seeking new cars on a fifty-thousand-dollar budget. The selection overflows with fresh models, nearly all redesigned in recent months. This calls for our team to don their precision driving gear and explore hidden test routes.

The newcomers include the BMW 540i, Mercedes-Benz E420, and Infiniti Q45t. Nissan has fully renewed the Q45 for this generation. Earlier versions arrived in 1990 emphasizing raw power over traditional luxury touches like wood trim, yet buyers sought more. The 1997 model adopts a broader range of upscale features while adopting conservative styling to appeal widely.

This updated Japanese contender meets two German rivals that are essentially V-8 editions of six-cylinder models ranking high in our prior comparison test. They embody a European mid-luxury style differing from both Japanese and American methods. These compact sedans feature responsive chassis favored by engaged drivers. Rear passengers receive less emphasis and are expected to stay composed. As a publication focused on driving dynamics, we tend to favor the European approach.

Yet past tests showed the Lexus LS400 excelling in a similar group through its blend of comfort, quietness, performance, efficiency, and space. Priced near fifty-five thousand dollars for 1997, it remains a standard. Does its approach still prevail against the Europeans? This comparison aims to resolve that.

The Cadillac STS, now more affordably priced, joins as another option below the fifty-thousand threshold. No further contenders appear. Evaluations follow.

4th Place: Infiniti Q45t

Experienced evaluators quickly assess vehicles, often within the first ten miles. This Infiniti reveals its qualities more gradually. Initial impressions suggest a large, quiet, and somewhat reserved sedan that improves with extended driving. Over days, it demonstrates balanced composure ideal for effortless long-distance travel.

The Touring package contributes with its sport-tuned suspension featuring adjusted rear components. This yields composed handling without prior firmness. Road isolation exceeds preferences of European-focused drivers, yet overall refinement earns respect.

The character emphasizes stability over spirited acceleration. Quarter-mile performance trails the group, with speeds notably lower than the BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus. While capable in grip and braking, it lacks the immediate power sensation of rivals.

Though slightly smaller than before, the Q remains the largest and heaviest here. Cabin room surpasses the Germans but falls short of the Lexus. Its trunk offers superior practicality with wide access and easy loading.

Drivers sit upright amid extensive wood-like accents on the dash, doors, and console. Leather feels supple with supportive yet plush seating. The cabin conveys ornate luxury, though it omits expected items like dual-zone climate controls and side airbags.

HIGHS: Strong mix of quiet cabin, smooth ride, and steady handling; top trunk utility.
LOWS: Limited power delivery, unmemorable styling, prominent artificial wood trim.
VERDICT: A capable sedan that reveals its strengths over time despite plain looks.

Its quiet assurance impresses, yet falls short overall.

3rd Place: Lexus LS400

The Lexus remains competitive, with scores nearly matching the leaders. A minority of testers preferred it most. Beyond objective metrics, subjective tastes influence rankings. Most seek engaging dynamics, even if many buyers prioritize comfort.

This model delivers strong acceleration, reaching high speeds efficiently, but prioritizes serene cruising. Exceptional smoothness and minimal noise set it apart. Low window lines enhance outward visibility. Artistic interior surfaces and pleasing color schemes add appeal. Leather avoids cling, while generous space and supportive seats excel. Useful features include adjustable lumbar support and multiple reading lamps. Thoughtful details like easy-access coat hooks enhance the experience.

The majority favors direct road feedback, which this car minimizes through heavy isolation. Steering requires little effort with vague centering, and initial body motions occur readily. Grip levels match the BMW once cornering, but it discourages aggressive maneuvers.

HIGHS: Exceptional smoothness and quietness, refined interior details, generous interior room.
LOWS: Excessive isolation in controls and ride for sportier tastes, overly bright gauges at night.
VERDICT: Opulent comfort presented without flashy excess.

Some noted limited steering wheel adjustment. Gauges stay bright at night. Fuel economy leads the group, with superior paint and panel fit.

Even dynamic enthusiasts recognize its engineering excellence.

2nd Place: BMW 540i

This BMW leads for spirited drives thanks to strong power and precise handling, yet ranks lower for passenger and cargo space. Its 4.4-liter V-8 propels it quickest, with superior acceleration times. The transmission responds well under hard use but starts in second gear lightly, reducing responsiveness in traffic.

Manual shifting offers distinct positions for each gear. Alternatives in the Mercedes and Lexus allow simpler top-gear changes via lever flicks, avoiding missed selections.

Both German cars provide connected road feel that builds confidence. The BMW edges ahead in steering sharpness and body control. Highway quietness benefits from strong wind suppression. Rough surfaces produce some resonance and tire noise.

The intimate cockpit suits sporty driving with higher beltline and supportive seats. Everyday use may feel confining for some.

HIGHS: Strong power and engine sound, precise steering and suspension, engaging cabin.
LOWS: Limited rear and trunk space, hesitant low-speed shifts, occasional noises on bumps.
VERDICT: Engaging for drivers, less ideal for groups.

Rear passengers experience tight shoulder room and limited foot space due to the tunnel. Lower cushion height affects leg comfort. Trunk capacity is the smallest here.

Jump to:

4th Place: Infiniti Q45t

3rd Place: Lexus LS400

2nd Place: BMW 540i