1998 Citroen Saxo vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Saxo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Saxo would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 855 kg more than 1998 Citroen Saxo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo, 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, 2009 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (74 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Saxo | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Citroen | Lexus |
| Model | Saxo | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 15.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
