2003 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 425 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
