2003 Lexus IS vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 640 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1993 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
