2005 Nissan Sentra vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Sentra. (155 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 315 kg more than 2005 Nissan Sentra. 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, 2005 Nissan Sentra, 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 Nissan Sentra (334 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (251 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS. 2005 Nissan Sentra has automatic transmission and 2012 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2012 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Nissan Sentra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Sentra | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Nissan | Lexus |
| Model | Sentra | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1252 kg | 1567 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
