1996 Mercury Mystique 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 Mercury Mystique. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Mystique would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Mystique is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Mercury Mystique. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercury Mystique. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 158 kg more than 1996 Mercury Mystique. 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 Mercury Mystique, 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, 2002 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercury Mystique. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercury Mystique.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercury Mystique | 2002 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mercury | Lexus |
Model | Mystique | IS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 130 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |