2012 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | C | IS |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2143 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4606 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1459 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
