1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2011 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
Model | 300 | IS |
Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 375 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1425 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2728 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |