2003 Lexus IS vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (154 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 315 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (231 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Lexus IS | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | IS | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 154 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 296 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 66 L |