2008 Lexus LS vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 2008 Lexus LS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus ES would be higher. At 4,608 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus LS (380 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1998 Lexus ES. (218 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus LS weights approximately 415 kg more than 1998 Lexus ES. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Lexus LS 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 LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES, 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 LS (493 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus LS | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Lexus | Lexus |
| Model | LS | ES |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4608 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 380 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 493 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2680 mm |
