2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 15 kg more than 1999 Lexus IS.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima, 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, 1999 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 1999 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Nissan Maxima | 1999 Lexus IS | |
Make | Nissan | Lexus |
Model | Maxima | IS |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2680 mm |