2001 Acura NSX vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 11 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura NSX (480 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura NSX should accelerate faster 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, 2001 Acura NSX (542 Nm) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (251 Nm). This means 2001 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS. 2001 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 2012 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2012 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura NSX | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Acura | Lexus |
| Model | NSX | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 480 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2731 mm |
