1973 Honda Z vs. 2011 Lexus IS

To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda Z would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (150 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1973 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 1035 kg more than 1973 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2011 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Honda Z, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Z. 2011 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1973 Honda Z has manual transmission. 1973 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Honda Z 2011 Lexus IS
Make Honda Lexus
Model Z IS
Year Released 1973 2011
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 356 cc 2231 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 24 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 30 Nm 340 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 510 kg 1545 kg
Vehicle Length 3000 mm 4585 mm
Vehicle Width 1300 mm 1801 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2010 mm 2731 mm