1997 Chrysler Sebring 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 Chrysler Sebring. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chrysler Sebring would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (150 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 235 kg more than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. 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 Chrysler Sebring, 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 (340 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. (176 Nm). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1997 Chrysler Sebring has manual transmission. 1997 Chrysler Sebring 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:
| 1997 Chrysler Sebring | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lexus |
| Model | Sebring | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1801 mm |
