2006 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 283 kg more than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2006 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. 2006 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2012 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Lexus | Hyundai |
| Model | IS | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4486 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
