1999 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 329 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2012 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Malibu | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Malibu | IS |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 64 L |
