2007 Lexus IS vs. 1998 Mitsubishi SST
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi SST. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi SST would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi SST (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2007 Lexus IS. (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi SST should accelerate faster than 2007 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 290 kg more than 1998 Mitsubishi SST.
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, 1998 Mitsubishi SST, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi SST (296 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lexus IS. (252 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi SST will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lexus IS. 1998 Mitsubishi SST has automatic transmission and 2007 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2007 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mitsubishi SST will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 1998 Mitsubishi SST | |
| Make | Lexus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | IS | SST |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
