1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | 420 | IS |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2680 mm |
