2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 683 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2012 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2012 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | R | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2250 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
