2003 Lexus IS vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 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 3,228 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 201 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 245 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3228 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
