2005 Lexus RX vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 2005 Lexus RX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus ES would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus RX (268 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Lexus ES. (218 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus RX weights approximately 585 kg more than 1998 Lexus ES. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Lexus ES. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX 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, 2005 Lexus RX (840 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 536 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus RX | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | RX | ES |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 840 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2115 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
