1997 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Lumina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Lumina would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Lumina. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Lumina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 57 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Lumina. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, both vehicles can yield 251 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Chevrolet Lumina has automatic transmission and 2012 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2012 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Lumina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Lumina | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Lumina | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 65 L |
