1978 Volvo 164 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 164. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 164.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 164. (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 164 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Volvo | Lexus |
| Model | 164 | IS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5610 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3350 mm | 2731 mm |
