2008 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2011 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2011 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 455 kg more than 2008 Nissan 350Z.
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 Nissan 350Z, 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 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Nissan | Lexus |
| Model | 350Z | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1112 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 65 L |
