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 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 85 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS.
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 (220 Nm) has 24 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 | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
