1989 Ford Taurus vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1989 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 167 kg more than 1989 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Lexus IS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Taurus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Taurus. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Taurus | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Taurus | IS |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2513 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2731 mm |
