2008 Lexus RX vs. 1978 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Tercel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Tercel would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus RX (271 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Tercel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 870 kg more than 1978 Toyota Tercel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2008 Lexus RX (340 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (102 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Tercel. 2008 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1978 Toyota Tercel has manual transmission. 1978 Toyota Tercel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus RX | 1978 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Lexus | Toyota |
| Model | RX | Tercel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
