2003 Lexus IS vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 205 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
