2005 Lexus RX vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 6 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 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus RX (231 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2011 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2011 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus RX weights approximately 9 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2005 Lexus RX (328 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm). This means 2005 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus RX | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | RX | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 328 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1751 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 65 L |
