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What is the difference between the RC350 and the RC300?

The RC350 offers a larger, naturally more powerful engine and sportier performance, while the RC300 emphasizes efficiency and lighter handling. In short, the RC350 is the higher-performance variant, and the RC300 is the more economical option with a turbocharged four-cylinder.

Powertrain and performance

The following breakdown highlights how the two models differ under the hood, how they drive, and what you can expect in everyday use.

Engine and output: RC350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 producing about 311 horsepower and around 280 lb-ft of torque. RC300 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four delivering about 241 horsepower and roughly 258 lb-ft of torque.

Transmission: Both models pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission with available manual shift modes, contributing to smooth power delivery in daily driving and spirited runs.

Drivetrain options: The RC350 is commonly offered with rear-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on certain trims. The RC300 is typically rear-wheel drive in many markets, with all-wheel drive offered in some regions depending on model year.

Performance figures: The RC350 generally posts faster 0–60 mph times (roughly mid-5-second range) than the RC300 (roughly low- to mid-6-second range), reflecting the V6’s higher output and heavier hardware.

Across these aspects, the RC350 trades higher power and a more aggressive feel for weight and price, while the RC300 prioritizes efficiency and everyday practicality without sacrificing Lexus’ characteristic refinement.

Equipment, trims and pricing

This section explains how equipment, trim levels, and cost typically differ between the two models, helping gauge what you get for the extra power in the RC350.

Standard features and trims: The RC350 generally comes with more standard luxury touches (for example, upgraded interior materials and seating) and sport-oriented options within the RC lineup. The RC300 can be well-equipped too, but some premium features may be added as options or tied to higher trims.

Handling and suspension: Sport-tuned setups are more commonly associated with the RC350, especially in F Sport variants, which often include stiffer springs, adaptive dampers, and unique styling cues. The RC300 focuses on balanced ride comfort with sportiness but usually lacks the aggressive settings found on the RC350 F Sport.

Amenities and tech: Both share Lexus’ core tech suite (infotainment, driver-assist features, and convenience tech), but higher trims of the RC350 may include more standard premium features or packages without needing as many options.

Pricing implications: As a rule, the RC350 starts higher than the RC300, with the difference driven by engine output, performance hardware, and available trims. Exact pricing varies by model year, market, and chosen options, but the RC350 typically commands a premium over the RC300.

All-wheel drive availability: AWD is commonly available on multiple RC350 configurations and may be offered on RC300 in certain markets or model years; availability depends on the region and trim.

For buyers, the RC350’s added hardware and power come at a higher price and often a stiffer ride, while the RC300 delivers stronger fuel economy and a lighter, more city-friendly profile.

What this means for buyers

If your priority is raw power, eager acceleration, and sporty handling, the RC350 is the more compelling choice. If you value lower running costs, better fuel economy, and a lighter feel in everyday driving, the RC300 is typically the smarter pick. Consider your driving priorities, whether you’ll benefit from AWD, and which trims include the features you want when choosing between them.

Summary

The RC350 and RC300 share the same overall design language and chassis, but diverge in powertrain, performance, and equipment emphasis. The RC350 uses a 3.5L V6 for stronger acceleration and a sportier character, often with more standard luxury and optional AWD. The RC300 relies on a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder for better efficiency and a lighter, more nimble feel, with AWD available in some configurations. Your choice depends on how you balance power, handling, fuel economy, and price in your daily driving.

What is the difference between Lexus 300 and 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 · Feb 28, 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)

Is the Lexus RC 300 fast?

With this engine, the RC 300 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds and reach a top track speed of 143 mph.

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).

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.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.