2007 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma would be higher. At 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (115 HP @ 5190 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 515 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma, 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, 2007 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. 2007 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma has manual transmission. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | Lexus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | IS | Carisma |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5190 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
