2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala 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 3,899 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (233 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (201 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 9 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 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Chevrolet Impala (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Impala | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3899 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 233 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 66 L |
