2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 266 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (203 Nm). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Cavalier | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 66 L |
