2008 Honda FR-V vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Honda FR-V is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,204 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda FR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Honda FR-V. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda FR-V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda FR-V weights approximately 186 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda FR-V, 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, 2008 Honda FR-V (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Honda FR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda FR-V | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Honda | Lexus |
| Model | FR-V | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2204 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1586 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
