2001 Acura NSX vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (270 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2001 Acura NSX. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Acura NSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura NSX weights approximately 120 kg more than 2008 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, 2001 Acura NSX (304 Nm) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 2001 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura NSX | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Acura | Lexus |
| Model | NSX | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2680 mm |
