2003 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 740 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.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML 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 ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2003 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2003 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 83 L |
