2008 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Lexus GS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus GS (205 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus GS weights approximately 215 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Lexus GS (275 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 1996 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2008 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2008 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1996 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | IS | GS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2810 mm |
