2009 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 410 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lexus IS | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | IS | SLK |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4969 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 416 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 503 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4020 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |