2002 Lexus RX vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus RX would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2002 Lexus RX. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus RX weights approximately 325 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS.
Because 2002 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Lexus RX 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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus RX. (283 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus RX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus RX | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | RX | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
