2003 Lexus IS vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (200 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 64 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000, 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (323 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Lexus | Saab |
| Model | IS | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
