2008 Lexus IS vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (216 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 632 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry, 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 IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Cherry has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Cherry will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | IS | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2400 mm |
