2001 Lexus IS vs. 2005 Lexus RX
To start off, 2005 Lexus RX is newer by 4 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 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus RX (231 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2001 Lexus IS. (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus RX weights approximately 261 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Lexus RX (328 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (298 Nm). This means 2005 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 2005 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | IS | RX |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1751 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 73 L |
