2003 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 365 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Lexus IS | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | IS | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2997 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 296 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |