2009 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Lexus IS. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 185 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (310 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | IS | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2231 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 15.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2430 mm |
