2003 Lexus SC vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus SC would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus SC weights approximately 20 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SC (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Lexus SC has manual transmission. 2003 Lexus SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus SC | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | SC | IS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |
