2003 Lexus IS vs. 2007 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2007 Dodge Nitro is newer by 4 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 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 460 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 2007 Dodge Nitro 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2007 Dodge Nitro 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. 2007 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2007 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Lexus | Dodge |
| Model | IS | Nitro |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
