1997 Lexus SC vs. 2009 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (280 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Lexus SC. (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1997 Lexus SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Lexus SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Lexus LS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus SC. (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lexus SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus SC | 2009 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | SC | LS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 417 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2930 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 84 L |
