2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 63 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS.
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 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | C | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
