2003 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Lexus LX
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus LX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus LX would be higher. At 4,664 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus LX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus LX (232 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus LX should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus LX weights approximately 1030 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Lexus LX 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, 1997 Lexus LX 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, 1997 Lexus LX (434 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus LX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 1997 Lexus LX has automatic transmission and 2003 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2003 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus LX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1997 Lexus LX | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | IS | LX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
