2001 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 11 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, 2001 Lexus IS (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (187 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 310 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS.
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, 2012 Toyota Highlander, 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, 2001 Lexus IS (298 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (252 Nm). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Highlander. 2012 Toyota Highlander 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. 2012 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Lexus | Toyota |
| Model | IS | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2789 mm |
