1988 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 480 kg more than 2002 Lexus IS.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz G | 2002 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | G | IS |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
