2005 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Lexus SC
To start off, 2005 Lexus IS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Lexus IS. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus SC weights approximately 63 kg more than 2005 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Lexus SC (370 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 1996 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | IS | SC |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 78 L |
