2003 Lexus IS vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 612 kg more than 2003 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3050 mm |
