2007 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 4 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 35 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz B has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz B | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | B | IS |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
