2005 Saturn L vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP) has 22 more horse power than 2005 Saturn L. (182 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 99 kg more than 2005 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L, 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, 2005 Saturn L (258 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn L | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Saturn | Lexus |
| Model | L | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 204 HP |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1468 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 65 L |
