2003 Honda Z 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 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Honda Z would be higher. At 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2003 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 805 kg more than 2003 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda Z. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda Z. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Honda Z has manual transmission. 2003 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Honda Z | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Honda | Lexus |
| Model | Z | IS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 654 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 65 L |
