1997 Holden Nova vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Nova would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1997 Holden Nova. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 550 kg more than 1997 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Holden Nova, 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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Holden Nova. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1997 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1997 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Nova | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Holden | Lexus |
| Model | Nova | IS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2680 mm |
