2005 Lexus RX vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lexus RX would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 Lexus RX. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus RX weights approximately 295 kg more than 2006 Lexus IS.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX, 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, 2006 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus RX. (283 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus RX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus RX | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | RX | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1615 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
