2003 Lexus IS vs. 2006 Lexus RX
To start off, 2006 Lexus RX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,308 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus RX (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus RX weights approximately 147 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 2006 Lexus RX 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, 2006 Lexus RX 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, 2006 Lexus RX (323 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2006 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | IS | RX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3308 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
