2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (90 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 25 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS.
Because 2001 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Lexus IS (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (181 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 2001 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | Vaneo | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
