2007 Lexus IS vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 2007 Lexus IS. (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 110 kg more than 2007 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Lexus IS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 449 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
