even though i have quams witht the build quality of the evo, there are two facts that apply to these two cars seperately. one is purpose built, (the evo) and one is poseur built, (the IS) I've driven both extensively, the evo you expect that it's going to be raw and powerfull, that's what it's made for. the lex, you expect it to be powerfull yet refined aswell. honestly, the is reminded me more of the interior of a upper eschelon camry than that of a lexus, for about ten grand more. it's a cheap car with a sought after brand name, and that about sums it up.

 

As someone that has owned both an IS300 and an EVO I would say stick with the EVO. The IS300 was appealing at first but quickly grew boring. Oh yeah and that Lexus build quality. Ha!!! The engine had a dead spot, CD player broke three times, seats were wearing after 20K miles. I would wait and see about a power increase and the all wheel drive version they are planning. They need to do something in order to stay competitive with BMW & Infiniti.

 

^^^ AGREED!

I had on 01 IS and traded it for the EVO. I love the EVO like I never loved the IS; and the performance is day and night. The styling on the IS is great, but the upgrade path to get any sort of decent performance is rediculous. It will put you well into the $50,000+ range to match the EVO performance.

Keep the EVO and thank your lucky stars that you have it. -my $0.02

 

i wouldn't do it, you see more women driving is 300 then men, plus if you really want luxury then go trade the evo for a bmw not a lexus

 

BMW the Ultimate Driving Machine

 

I wouldn't want an IS300 because of those fugly Altezza tailights...

 

As opposed to an Evo with it's Altezza lights? At least the IS 300 was the original car have Altezza-style taillights...

 

my friend has the IS and i always make fun of it.... he doesnt drive fast but cruise ...but not by choice, but thats all he can do

 

Poor motor, decent looks, chic car. Enough said-

 

Dont they have the supra inline 6 2EJ motor? That motor is proven and badass. But is300 is not that appealing if you ask me. I would go for G35 if you are looking for lexury/sport. If i'm in your shoes, I would go for a white M3.

 

They're totally different cars. If you find the Evo is too rough around the edges, or you want to be able to put the tail out around corners, or you want a nicer, better appointed interior, then the IS is the right choice. If you want pure performance and AWD clearly stick with the Evo.

Also there are IS's running around with over 500whp, so they aren't exactly stuck with 220-some NA horsepower. You might be surprised what a turbo or supercharger can to do the already-proven 2JZ block.

 

^^^^^^^^^ my evo can break loose it's tail pretty easilly in the corners, just wanted to throw that out there.

 

Lexus is a down grade. AWD forever!

 

An IS300 is not very fun to drive......... Why do I say this, because I use to own one(actually I bought it for my wife). It is by no way is it some cheap car that people here have said. The IS300 is a great car and will give you no troubles as to reliability. It is an awesome car but you will miss the power of the EVO. If you have an EVO, just keep your EVO. Theres nothing special about the IS300 unless your looking for some luxury. Performance wise, it's pretty slow. If you got some money to burn then look into the LS430. You get performance and pure luxury. If I was going into luxury, it would most definitely be the 2005 LS430. 290hp and 320ftlbs of torque(14.5 in the 1/4).

 

Still Small... Still Ugly.. if you want class or sport.. go for something bigger .. Its the size of a Civic!