1988 Buick Reatta vs. 2001 Lexus IS

To start off, 2001 Lexus IS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Reatta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Reatta would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Reatta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2001 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Reatta weights approximately 136 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta, 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, 1988 Buick Reatta (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Reatta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS. 1988 Buick Reatta has automatic transmission and 2001 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2001 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Reatta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Buick Reatta 2001 Lexus IS
Make Buick Lexus
Model Reatta IS
Year Released 1988 2001
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1986 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 165 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 195 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1536 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 69 L 70 L