1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 182 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
Model | Malibu | IS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1567 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2731 mm |