2003 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 5 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 323 kg more than 2008 Nissan Altima.
Because 2003 Lexus IS 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 IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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 Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | IS | Altima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
