2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 183 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
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 Mercedes-Benz S (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2011 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2011 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | S | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3221 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
