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 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (276 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2009 Lexus IS. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 250 kg more than 2003 Subaru Legacy.

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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (343 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Legacy.

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 2231 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 276 HP
Engine RPM 3600 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 343 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 96 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 15.8:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 1410 kg
Vehicle Length 4580 mm 4640 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 64 L