2009 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru Legacy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Legacy would be higher. At 3,454 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (137 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 408 kg more than 2003 Subaru Legacy. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (187 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Legacy. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru Legacy has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Lexus IS 2003 Subaru Legacy
Make Lexus Subaru
Model IS Legacy
Year Released 2009 2003
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3454 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Horse Power 306 HP 137 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 376 Nm 187 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 94 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83 mm 75 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1740 kg 1332 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 64 L