VS
At a Glance
Power
311hp @ 6600
255hp @ 5800
Torque
280lb-ft @ 4800
295lb-ft @ 2000
Engine
3.5 L/211cc
2.0 L/122cc
Choosing between the Lexus IS and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Lexus IS delivers 311hp @ 6600 while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class produces 255hp @ 5800. Pricing starts at $47,950 for the IS and $49,650 for the C-Class. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
311hp @ 6600
255hp @ 5800
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 4800
295lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.5 L/211cc
2.0 L/122cc
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
—
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
—
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19 (Est)mpg
25mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27 (Est)mpg
35mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.4gal
17.4gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
185.4in
187in
Width (in)
72.4in
74.4in
Height (in)
56.5in
56.6in
Wheelbase (in)
110.2in
112.8in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3913lbs
3825lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Lexus IS
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
IS
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Lexus IS
Lower starting price ($47,950)
Few notable weaknesses
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the IS or C-Class?
The IS produces 311hp @ 6600 and 280lb-ft @ 4800 of torque while the C-Class delivers 255hp @ 5800 and 295lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the IS and C-Class?
The IS starts from $47,950 and the C-Class from $49,650. The IS is cheaper by $1,700 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the IS or the C-Class?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider