2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Lexus IS would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 2004 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus IS weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | SL | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
