1996 Honda Civic vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Civic would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda Civic, 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, 2006 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (174 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Civic | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Honda | Lexus |
| Model | Civic | IS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1834 cc | 3441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
