2008 Lexus IS vs. 1988 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 525 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1988 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Lexus | Suzuki |
| Model | IS | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2490 mm |
