2008 Lexus RX vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus RX (271 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 450 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 RX (340 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Altima. (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Altima. 2008 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus RX | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | RX | Altima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 73 L |
