2002 Lexus IS vs. 1989 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP) has 138 more horse power than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (63 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1989 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 460 kg more than 1989 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2002 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota Corolla. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1989 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 1989 Toyota Corolla will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 1989 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Lexus | Toyota |
| Model | IS | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
