2008 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Lexus ES
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus ES (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus ES weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lexus ES, 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, 2003 Lexus ES (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 2003 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2008 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2008 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2003 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | IS | ES |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
