2004 Lexus IS vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Lexus IS would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 340 more horse power than 2004 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 521 kg more than 2004 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 505 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lexus IS | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1921 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
