2003 Lexus IS vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 2 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (215 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 90 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
