1997 Lexus LS vs. 2009 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa is newer by 12 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 173 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Versa. (107 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus LS weights approximately 373 kg more than 2009 Nissan Versa. 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, 2009 Nissan Versa, 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 247 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Versa. (151 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Versa. 1997 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Versa has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Versa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus LS | 2009 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | LS | Versa |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3967 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 398 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.3 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.5 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 50 L |
