2008 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Elantra.
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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, 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 (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (177 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Lexus | Hyundai |
| Model | IS | Elantra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
