2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2001 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 355 kg more than 2001 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 SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS. 2001 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
Model | SL | IS |
Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 247 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |