2008 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercury Sable. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercury Sable would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 153 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercury Sable weights approximately 57 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Sable, 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, 2003 Mercury Sable (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2003 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercury |
| Model | IS | Sable |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 85 L |
