1997 Lexus LS vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 1998 Acura RL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,967 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus LS (280 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1998 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus LS weights approximately 140 kg more than 1998 Acura RL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Lexus LS 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 1997 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Acura RL, 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, 1997 Lexus LS (398 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus LS | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | Lexus | Acura |
| Model | LS | RL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3967 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 398 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 50 L |
