What is the difference between RC 300 and 350?
The Lexus RC 300 and RC 350 are both luxury sports coupes, but they have some key differences in terms of engine power, performance, and features. In this article, we'll explore the main distinctions between these two Lexus models to help you determine which one might be the better fit for your driving needs and preferences.
Engine and Performance
The primary difference between the RC 300 and RC 350 lies in their engine configurations. The RC 300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the RC 350 is equipped with a larger 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
This difference in engine displacement and power output translates to noticeable performance differences. The RC 350 is the more powerful and sportier of the two, with a quicker 0-60 mph time of around 5.8 seconds, compared to the RC 300's 6.3-second 0-60 mph time.
Drivetrain and Handling
Both the RC 300 and RC 350 are available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations. However, the RC 300 can also be had with a hybrid powertrain, which combines the turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency.
In terms of handling, the RC 350 is generally considered the more agile and responsive of the two, thanks to its more powerful engine and sportier tuning. The RC 300, on the other hand, offers a slightly more comfortable and composed ride, making it a bit more suitable for daily driving.
Features and Pricing
Both the RC 300 and RC 350 come well-equipped with a range of premium features, including:
- Lexus' signature spindle grille design
- LED headlights and taillights
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Lexus' Remote Touch Interface infotainment system
However, the RC 350 tends to offer a few more standard features, such as a more advanced audio system and a few additional safety technologies.
In terms of pricing, the RC 300 starts at around $42,000, while the RC 350 has a base price of approximately $45,000. The exact pricing can vary depending on the specific trim level and optional features selected.
Ultimately, the choice between the Lexus RC 300 and RC 350 will depend on your priorities and driving preferences. The RC 300 offers a more balanced and efficient driving experience, while the RC 350 is the more powerful and performance-oriented option. Consider your needs and test drive both models to determine which one best suits your lifestyle.
What is the difference between RC 300 and RC 350?
The main difference is that the Lexus RC 350 has a more powerful engine, with 311311311 horsepower compared to the RC 300's 260260260 horsepower (AWD models). The RC 300 is generally more affordable, while the RC 350 offers a significant performance upgrade, making it the sportier choice. Other differences include varying transmission options and potential package differences between trims.
This video explains the difference between the Lexus RC 300 and RC 350: 57sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Dec 15, 2015
Lexus RC 300
- Engine: A detuned V6 in AWD models, which produces 260260260 horsepower, or a four-cylinder engine in some RWD versions.
- Price: Generally lower starting price than the RC 350.
- Performance: Less powerful, which can be a drawback for those seeking quick acceleration.
- Fuel Efficiency: Often has better fuel economy, especially in its four-cylinder, rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Lexus RC 350
- Engine: A more powerful 311311311 horsepower V6 engine.
- Price: Higher starting price than the RC 300.
- Performance: Significantly quicker and more responsive, with a faster 0–600 – 600–60 mph time.
- Transmission: Some models, like the 2023 RC 350 AWD F Sport, use a 6-speed automatic transmission, while others use an 8-speed.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose the RC 300 if: You prioritize a lower purchase price and potentially better fuel economy, and you don't need the extra power of the V6.
- Choose the RC 350 if: You want the extra performance and acceleration from the more powerful V6 engine.
Which is better, Lexus 300 or 350?
The main differences between the Lexus 300 and 350 are performance and price: the 350 generally has a more powerful engine and higher horsepower, while the 300 is more affordable. Specifically, the IS 300 typically features a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, while the IS 350 uses a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine.
You can watch this video to see a visual comparison of the exterior differences between the IS 300 and IS 350 F-Sport: 1mIBKadeYouTube · Mar 1, 2021
| Feature | Lexus 300 | Lexus 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Typically a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder (for rear-wheel drive) or a 3.5L V6 (for all-wheel drive) | Typically a 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | Around 241 hp (2.0L Turbo) or 260 hp (3.5L V6) | Around 311 hp |
| Torque | Around 258 lb-ft (2.0L Turbo) | Around 280 lb-ft |
| Price | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Performance | Good for daily driving | More power for a sportier driving experience |
| Fuel Economy | Generally more fuel-efficient | Less fuel-efficient than the 300 |
| Design | Standard grille and wheels | Often features a more aggressive F-Sport grille and unique wheels (on F-Sport trims) |
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This video discusses the differences between the Lexus IS 300 and IS 350, including performance and features: 59sBen HardyYouTube · Jan 9, 2023
What is the difference between Lexus RX 300 and 350?
The main differences between the RX 300 and RX 350 are the engine, drivetrain, and performance. The RX 350 has a more powerful V6 engine and comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), while the RX 300 uses a smaller, turbocharged four-cylinder engine and is often front-wheel drive (FWD). The RX 350 is generally more powerful, has better fuel efficiency, and may include more standard luxury features, although the specific features can vary by model year.
This video compares the Lexus RX 300 and RX 350, highlighting differences in exterior design and interior features: 54sMy Auto FocusYouTube · Mar 13, 2024
Engine and performance
- RX 350: Typically features a 3.5L V6 engine, producing more horsepower (around 275 hp) and a more linear power delivery.
- RX 300: Is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is more responsive but has less overall power (around 220 hp).
Drivetrain
- RX 350: Comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) on most models.
- RX 300: Is available in a front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration, while AWD versions may be available depending on the model year.
Fuel efficiency
- RX 350: Generally offers better fuel efficiency, with an average of around 25 mpg.
- RX 300: Has lower fuel efficiency due to the less powerful engine, averaging around 18 mpg.
Other potential differences
- Features: The RX 350 may come with more standard luxury features, such as genuine leather seats with memory settings and heated/ventilated seats, although this depends on the specific model year and trim level.
- Drivability: The RX 350 is described as having a more powerful and smoother driving experience, while the RX 300 is more responsive at lower speeds.
This video compares the interior features of the Lexus RX 350 with the NX 350, but also highlights the space and features available in the RX models: 55sPerformance LexusYouTube · Aug 17, 2024
What does RC mean in RC 350?
The Lexus RC (Japanese: レクサス・RC, Rekusasu RC) is a compact executive two-door sport coupé manufactured by Lexus, Toyota's luxury division. The RC which according to Lexus stands for "Radical Coupe" is a two-door coupé version of the Lexus IS (XE30).
