2002 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Saab 900
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Saab 900. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 85 kg more than 1997 Saab 900. 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, 1997 Saab 900, 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 (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saab 900. (178 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 1997 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Lexus | Saab |
| Model | IS | 900 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
