2004 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Hyundai Elantra would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (150 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 350 kg more than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2012 Lexus IS (340 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Elantra | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lexus |
| Model | Elantra | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
