2007 Lexus RX vs. 1997 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2007 Lexus RX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus RX (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1997 Toyota RAV4. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus RX weights approximately 610 kg more than 1997 Toyota RAV4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Lexus RX (342 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota RAV4. (173 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota RAV4. 2007 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota RAV4 has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota RAV4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus RX | 1997 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Lexus | Toyota |
| Model | RX | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
