2001 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2001 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 13 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS.
Because 2001 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Xterra 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Xterra. (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Xterra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Nissan Xterra | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Nissan | Lexus |
| Model | Xterra | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1890 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2731 mm |
