1996 Buick LeSabre vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick LeSabre (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2002 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 90 kg more than 2002 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Buick LeSabre, 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, 1996 Buick LeSabre (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1996 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick LeSabre | 2002 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Buick | Lexus |
| Model | LeSabre | IS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
