2001 Lexus IS vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 5 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 28 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 740 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (441 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (298 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2001 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2001 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | R |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2990 mm |
