1981 Nissan Cherry vs. 2004 Lexus IS
To start off, 2004 Lexus IS is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus IS weights approximately 575 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry, 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, 2004 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 2004 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Cherry has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Cherry will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Cherry | 2004 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Nissan | Lexus |
| Model | Cherry | IS |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2680 mm |
