1987 Citroen AX vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Citroen AX would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (150 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 823 kg more than 1987 Citroen AX. 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, 1987 Citroen AX, 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (73 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1987 Citroen AX has manual transmission. 1987 Citroen AX 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:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Citroen | Lexus |
| Model | AX | IS |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.2 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| 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 | 722 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
