2008 Lexus IS vs. 2002 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 306 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. 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, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire, 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, 2002 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2002 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Lexus | Pontiac |
| Model | IS | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1199 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2740 mm |
