2002 Toyota Corolla vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (78 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 377 kg more than 2002 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (147 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Toyota Corolla | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Toyota | Lexus |
| Model | Corolla | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2728 mm |
