2008 Lexus ES vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus ES is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus ES (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1999 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus ES weights approximately 55 kg more than 1999 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lexus ES, 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, 2008 Lexus ES (344 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus ES | 1999 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | ES | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
