2003 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 30 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Lexus IS | 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | IS | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2997 cc | 4266 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 303 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5850 RPM |
Torque | 296 Nm | 410 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
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 | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 69 L |