2003 Volvo V50 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 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (150 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 80 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 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 Volvo V50 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Volvo | Lexus |
Model | V50 | IS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2442 cc | 2231 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1545 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |