1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 23 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
Because 2011 Lexus IS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Buick LeSabre. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 251 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Buick LeSabre | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Buick | Lexus |
| Model | LeSabre | IS |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2731 mm |
