2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 212 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (236 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Elantra | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
