2001 Lexus IS vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 2001 Lexus IS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 740 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Talbot Samba, 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, 2001 Lexus IS (298 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (85 Nm). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Lexus | Talbot |
| Model | IS | Samba |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2350 mm |
