2008 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 4 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, 2008 Lexus IS (216 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Sentra. (177 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 62 kg more than 2012 Nissan Sentra. 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra, 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 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Sentra. (233 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | IS | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4575 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
