2008 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR would be higher. At 6,898 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (770 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 575 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | CLK GTR |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 6898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 604 HP |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 770 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
