1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2010 Lexus IS
To start off, 2010 Lexus IS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus IS weights approximately 573 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2010 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2010 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Cavalier | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
