2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (208 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 Lexus IS | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lexus |
Model | 159 | IS |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 196 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |