2003 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2003 Toyota RAV4. (145 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 482 kg more than 2003 Toyota RAV4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota RAV4. (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota RAV4. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Toyota RAV4 has manual transmission. 2003 Toyota RAV4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Toyota RAV4 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Toyota | Lexus |
| Model | RAV4 | IS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
