2003 Lexus GS vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 2003 Lexus GS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus GS (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Lexus GS.
Because 2003 Lexus GS 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 2003 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL, 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, 1997 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus GS. (296 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus GS | 1997 Acura RL | |
| Make | Lexus | Acura |
| Model | GS | RL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 50 L |
