2008 Lexus RX vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus RX 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 67 more horse power than 2011 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2011 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 173 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX, 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 RX (340 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus RX | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | RX | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 65 L |
