2003 Lexus ES vs. 2008 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus ES would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2003 Lexus ES. (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus ES weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 2008 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lexus ES, 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus ES. (325 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus ES. 2003 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus ES | 2008 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | ES | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3314 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
