2003 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Mitsubishi RVR
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi RVR 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi RVR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Mitsubishi RVR. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Mitsubishi RVR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 25 kg more than 2012 Mitsubishi RVR. 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 Mitsubishi RVR, 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, both vehicles can yield 196 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2012 Mitsubishi RVR | |
| Make | Lexus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | IS | RVR |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| 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 | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4295 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
