1999 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 1999 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 345 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL, 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, 1999 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus IS | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Saturn |
| Model | IS | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
