2001 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 460 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2001 Lexus IS (298 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Lexus IS | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | IS | A |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 130 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2600 mm |