2004 Lexus ES vs. 2012 Lexus IS

To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Lexus ES would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2004 Lexus ES. (216 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 146 kg more than 2004 Lexus ES. 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, 2004 Lexus ES, 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 (502 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Lexus ES. (325 Nm). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Lexus ES.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Lexus ES 2012 Lexus IS
Make Lexus Lexus
Model ES IS
Year Released 2004 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3310 cc 5000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 216 HP 416 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 325 Nm 502 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic 8-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1569 kg 1715 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4661 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1816 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1415 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2731 mm
Fuel Consumption 8.1 L/100km 10.2 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 11.8 L/100km 14.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 64 L