1990 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 222 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
Model | S | IS |
Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2599 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1742 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4633 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2731 mm |