2003 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 310 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. 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, 1997 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Lexus | Toyota |
| Model | IS | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
