Is the Lexus RC350 faster than the IS350?

In most configurations, the IS350 is slightly quicker in straight-line acceleration than the RC350, but the gap is narrow and depends on model year, transmission, and trim.

Powertrains and specs

Key figures that influence speed for both models are the engine, transmission, and drivetrain configuration.

• Engine: 3.5-liter V6 in both RC350 and IS350, commonly delivering about 311 horsepower and around 280 lb-ft of torque.


• Transmission: 8-speed automatic in most markets, with drivetrain typically rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive offered in some regions or trims.


• Drivetrain and focus: RC350 emphasizes sport coupe handling and sharper character, while IS350 emphasizes sedan balance and refined ride.


• Weight considerations: Coupes like the RC350 generally have a different weight distribution and mass compared with the IS350 sedan, which can affect acceleration feel even if power is similar.

The numbers above illustrate why acceleration is close between the two, but the body style, tires, and suspension tuning can tilt the result in favor of one or the other in real-world driving.

Real-world performance tests

Autoneous reviews and tests typically place the IS350 in the mid-5-second range for 0–60 mph, with the RC350 falling in the high-5 to low-6-second range. Exact figures vary by model year, transmission choice, and whether the car is equipped with optional performance packages.

• 0–60 mph (IS350): generally around 5.5–5.9 seconds depending on year and drivetrain.


• 0–60 mph (RC350): generally around 5.7–6.1 seconds depending on year and drivetrain.


• Top speed: both are typically electronically limited to roughly 140–150 mph, varying with tires and equipment.

In everyday driving, the difference is often less noticeable than handling feel, throttle response, and how quickly the car shifts or rev-matches, especially with different drive modes (Eco/Normal/Sport/Sport+).

Practical considerations: choosing between them

Beyond straight-line speed, buyers should weigh how each car suits their needs in daily use and on spirited drives.

• Body style and practicality: IS350 is a four-door sedan with more rear-seat and cargo practicality; RC350 is a two-door coupe with a sportier silhouette and less rear-seat practicality.


• Ride and refinement: IS350 typically prioritizes all-around refinement and comfort; RC350 often emphasizes a sportier, more engaging chassis feel, especially with sport-oriented trims.


• Equipment and trims: options like F Sport on either model can alter suspension tuning, steering feel, and exhaust note, influencing perceived speed and engagement.


• Fuel economy and maintenance: both share powertrains, so differences are usually modest and depend on driving style and options.

For buyers prioritizing outright speed, the difference remains modest; for those prioritizing daily practicality or driving experience, the choice between sedan and coupe and the ride characteristics will be more decisive.

Bottom line

The IS350 is typically a touch faster in straight-line acceleration in many model years, while the RC350 offers a more aggressive sport coupe experience. The gap is small, and the best pick depends on whether you want a sedan with balanced performance or a coupe with sharper styling and chassis dynamics.

Summary: Both Lexus models use the same 3.5-liter V6 and an 8-speed automatic, yielding very close performance overall. The IS350 often edges out the RC350 slightly in raw acceleration, but the appeal of each car—sedan practicality versus coupe sportiness—drives the final choice more than a few tenths of a second.

What is the difference between Lexus RC 350 and IS 350?

The main difference is that the Lexus RC 350 is a two-door coupe while the IS 350 is a four-door sedan. While both models share the same powerful engine, the IS 350 is more practical with more passenger and cargo space, whereas the RC 350 is more style-oriented, has a slightly higher price tag, and has more valuable resale potential.
 
This video compares the Lexus RC 350 and IS 350, highlighting their design differences: 1mBen HardyYouTube · Mar 2, 2020
Practicality and space

• IS 350: More practical due to four doors and greater interior space, especially for rear passengers and cargo.
• RC 350: More limited in rear passenger and cargo space, making it less suitable for families or those who frequently carry multiple people. 

Performance and driving

• Both models: Share the same 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 311 horsepower. 
• IS 350: May have a slight edge in acceleration and is often considered the better all-around daily driver. 
• RC 350: Is often described as more of a comfortable cruiser with a sportier look, but some users note it doesn't feel as sporty on the track as its name suggests. 

Style and features

• IS 350: Has a modern, sharper sedan design. 
• RC 350: Features a sportier coupe design and is considered more of a head-turner. 
• Infotainment: The IS 350 has a touchscreen infotainment system that the RC 350 lacks, which can be a significant difference for some drivers. 

Price and value

• IS 350: Has a lower starting price compared to the RC 350. 
• RC 350: Has better long-term resale value, retaining a higher percentage of its original value over time. 

You can watch this video to see the interior of both the Lexus RC 350 and IS 350: 1mSerg Car ReviewsYouTube · May 22, 2022
Which one is right for you?

• Choose the IS 350 if you prioritize practicality, need more passenger and cargo space, and want a more affordable daily driver with better resale value. 
• Choose the RC 350 if you prefer the style of a two-door coupe, don't frequently use the rear seats, and are willing to pay more for a car with a higher resale value. 

Is the Lexus RC faster than the is?

Is the Lexus RC or Lexus IS faster? While both Lexus cars can deliver impeccable 0-60 times, the Lexus IS is slightly faster than the Lexus RC with the Lexus IS 500 F SPORT Performance and IS 500 F SPORT Performance Premium offering a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds.

How fast does a Lexus IS 350 go?

A Lexus IS 350 can reach a top speed of approximately 143-150 mph and can go from 0-60 mph in about 5.6 to 5.7 seconds, depending on the model and drivetrain. The rear-wheel drive (RWD) versions generally accelerate slightly faster than the all-wheel drive (AWD) models. 
You can watch this video to see a test drive of the 2024 Lexus IS350 AWD: 52sDM Car ReviewsYouTube · Sep 28, 2024

• Top Speed: Approximately 143-150 mph, with most models electronically limited. 
• 0-60 mph (RWD): Around 5.6 seconds for the rear-wheel drive F Sport models. 
• 0-60 mph (AWD): About 5.7 seconds for the all-wheel drive F Sport models. 

This video shows a test drive of the 2021 Lexus IS 350 F Sport: 1mThe Drive WireYouTube · Apr 19, 2021

How fast is a Lexus RC350?

The RC 350 offers a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 311 horsepower. This engine can get the RC 350 from 0-60 MPH in 5.8 seconds. Regardless of engine and transmission, your RC will come equipped with paddle shifter, giving you complete control over the drive.