2008 Lexus IS vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 Lexus IS. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus IS.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback 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, 2009 Subaru Outback (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2009 Subaru Outback has manual transmission. 2009 Subaru Outback will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Lexus | Subaru |
| Model | IS | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 243 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
