2001 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Lexus SC
To start off, 2003 Lexus SC is newer by 2 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2001 Lexus IS. (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Lexus SC.
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 Lexus IS (298 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus SC. (290 Nm). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 2003 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | IS | SC |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
