2002 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1989 Lexus LS
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lexus LS weights approximately 623 kg more than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Lexus LS 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 1989 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 1989 Lexus LS (350 Nm) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 1989 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 1989 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2002 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2002 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Elantra | 1989 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Elantra | LS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2820 mm |
