2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 44 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (375 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (311 Nm). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | CLK | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
