1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 14 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 620 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2012 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. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
Model | A | IS |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 416 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 502 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1715 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4661 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2731 mm |