Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD vs Ferrari 488 Spider RWD

The Ferrari 488 Spider RWD is a luxurious exotic sports car that made its debut in 2016, positioned as a successor to the Ferrari 458. Celebrated for its stunning design, exceptional performance, and thrilling driving experience, the 488 Spider RWD features a roadster body style, allowing occupants to experience the open air. With a base price exceeding a quarter-million dollars, this car caters to enthusiasts who appreciate high-end engineering and performance. Its production ran until 2019, leaving a legacy characterized by a potent powertrain and agile performance dynamics. Buyers seeking this Italian masterpiece on the used market will find a singular driving experience enhanced by its sound and design, making it a rare contender in the luxury sports car segment.

The Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD, though initially launched with some trepidation regarding its performance capabilities, has carved out a niche of its own since its introduction. As part of the third generation of the IS line, the IS 350 features a more substantial and heavier build than its predecessors, yet it still offers an engaging driving experience. The F Sport trim delivers upgraded aesthetics and specific features designed to enhance driver engagement, though it does not significantly increase performance relative to the base model. A notable addition is the exclusive limited-slip differential available on rear-wheel-drive configurations, which improves handling dynamics. Overall, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD serves as a stylish yet practical option in the sport sedan market, targeting buyers who value design and comfort alongside sportiness.

The performance metrics of these two vehicles highlight a stark contrast. The Ferrari 488 Spider RWD's 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 generates a commanding 661 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. This robust output, combined with the lightweight design and a curb weight of 3,362 pounds, ensures a driving performance that is both exhilarating and responsive.

In comparison, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD's 3.5-liter V6 engine produces a more modest 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The car weighs 3,593 pounds, which results in slightly diminished performance relative to the lighter Ferrari. While the IS 350 F Sport AWD features sufficient power for daily driving and spirited commutes, it lacks the raw speed and excitement delivered by the Ferrari.

The Ferrari 488 Spider RWD is powered by a robust 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that delivers a remarkable output. This engine pairs with a seven-speed automated manual transmission, contributing to an exhilarating driving experience. With the rear-wheel-drive setup, this potent combination enables the car to achieve 0-60 mph in an impressive 3.0 seconds, epitomizing its sports car credentials.

Conversely, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD features a smaller 3.5-liter V6 engine, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup, combined with an all-wheel-drive system, provides a balanced driving experience. The estimated 0-60 mph time for this sedan is around 5.6 seconds. While this time is significantly slower than its counterpart, the all-wheel-drive mechanism provides additional grip and stability in varied driving conditions.