2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 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 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 340 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 609 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 604 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
Model | SL | IS |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 196 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 75 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |