2002 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2002 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
