1996 Hyundai Lantra 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 Hyundai Lantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Lantra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. (112 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 424 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. 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 Hyundai Lantra, 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 (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. (143 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Lantra. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1996 Hyundai Lantra has manual transmission. 1996 Hyundai Lantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Lantra | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Lantra | IS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2731 mm |
