2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 10 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 568 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 550 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. 2002 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | S | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| 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 | 2135 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
