2008 Acura RL vs. 2001 Lexus IS

To start off, 2008 Acura RL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 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 89 more horse power than 2001 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 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 2001 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Acura RL 2001 Lexus IS
Make Acura Lexus
Model RL IS
Year Released 2008 2001
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 201 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 347 Nm 247 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
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