Automotive enthusiasts looking to explore the roots of modern premium vehicles can now revisit a classic rivalry. A newly surfaced retrospective gallery highlights the iconic 1997 luxury sedan comparison test, pitting the best of Japanese engineering against German automotive royalty.
The lineup features four heavyweights from the late 90s: the 1997 Infiniti Q45t, the 1997 Lexus LS400, the 1997 BMW 540i, and the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E420. This era represented a pivotal moment in automotive history, where Japanese automakers aggressively attempted to out-luxe their established German counterparts.
The central question of the original Car and Driver review remains a classic debate: "Japan tries its best to out-luxe the Germans, but who ends up winning our hearts and minds?" The gallery provides a comprehensive look at the interior and exterior of each vehicle from every angle, showcasing the distinct design philosophies of the time - from the conservative elegance of the LS400 to the driving-focused cabin of the 540i.
Looking Ahead: 2026 and 2028 Future Models
While the 1997 luxury sedan comparison offers a dose of nostalgia, the automotive landscape continues to evolve rapidly. Recent updates also highlight several upcoming modern vehicles across various segments:
- 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid: New exterior and interior photos reveal the upcoming family SUV.
- Mercedes-Benz VLE-Class: Fresh glimpses of both the interior and exterior of this new class.
- 2026 Ram 2500 Tradesman: Exterior and interior shots showcase the next iteration of the heavy-duty workhorse.
- 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance: Updated interior and exterior galleries for the popular EV.
- 2028 Audi A6 Allroad: A sneak peek at the exterior and interior of the future rugged wagon.
- 2026 Lexus ES EV: Exterior and interior photos of the brand's upcoming electric sedan.
The Evolution of the Luxury Standard
Looking back at the 1997 Infiniti Q45t and Mercedes-Benz E420 highlights just how drastically the definition of a luxury sedan has shifted. In the late 90s, the battleground was defined by plush leather, wood trim, and V8 engine refinement. Today, as seen with the upcoming 2026 Lexus ES EV and Tesla Model Y Performance, the premium segment is entirely dominated by software ecosystems, battery range, and autonomous driving capabilities.
The Japanese strategy in 1997 was to undercut German pricing while matching their build quality, a tactic that successfully established Lexus as a global powerhouse. However, the transition to electric vehicles has reset the playing field once again. Legacy brands are no longer just competing with each other; they are fighting off tech-first disruptors. The contrast between the analog charm of a 1997 BMW 540i and the digital-first approach of a 2028 Audi A6 Allroad proves that while the badge on the hood remains important, the technology underneath is what now wins the hearts and minds of modern buyers.
