2003 Lexus IS vs. 2011 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 8 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 68 kg more than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. 2011 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2011 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2011 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Lexus | Hyundai |
| Model | IS | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4486 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
