1973 Peugeot 204 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Peugeot 204. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Peugeot 204 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1973 Peugeot 204. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1973 Peugeot 204. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 895 kg more than 1973 Peugeot 204. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Peugeot 204, 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Peugeot 204. (84 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Peugeot 204. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1973 Peugeot 204 has manual transmission. 1973 Peugeot 204 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Peugeot 204 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Peugeot | Lexus |
| Model | 204 | IS |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1130 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2731 mm |
