2003 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (613 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 460 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 550 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 803 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 613 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2585 mm |
