2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 248 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
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 (460 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (375 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | SL | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
