2003 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 9 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (303 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 435 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 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (358 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Lexus | Buick |
| Model | IS | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2837 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
