2002 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 2005 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 416 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2005 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | 2005 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Prizm | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2680 mm |
