1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 280 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A 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:
1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2002 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
Model | A | IS |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2680 mm |