1998 Lexus ES vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2008 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 25 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS. 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, 1998 Lexus ES, 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, 1998 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2008 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2008 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | ES | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
