1999 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 112 kg more than 2012 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2012 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | S | IS |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1854 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
