2003 Dodge Intrepid vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Intrepid. (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Intrepid. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 130 kg more than 2003 Dodge Intrepid. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Intrepid, 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, 2009 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Intrepid. (257 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Intrepid.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Intrepid | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Dodge | Lexus |
| Model | Intrepid | IS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2735 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 503 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2740 mm |
