2001 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2008 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 7 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota RAV4 (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2001 Lexus IS. (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Toyota RAV4.
Because 2008 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (298 Nm). This means 2008 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS. 2008 Toyota RAV4 has automatic transmission and 2001 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2001 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 2008 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Lexus | Toyota |
| Model | IS | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
