2004 Saturn Relay 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 Saturn Relay. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Saturn Relay would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2004 Saturn Relay. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn Relay.
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 Saturn Relay, 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 (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn Relay. (299 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn Relay.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Saturn Relay | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Saturn | Lexus |
| Model | Relay | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 299 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2731 mm |
