2008 Acura RL vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Acura RL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1999 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 126 kg more than 2008 Acura RL.
Because 2008 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL 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, 2008 Acura RL (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus IS. 2008 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1999 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 1999 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RL | 1999 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Acura | Lexus |
| Model | RL | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 70 L |
