2003 Lexus IS vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 1 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 355 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| 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 |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| 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 | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 88 L |
