2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (234 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2011 Lexus IS. (150 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2011 Lexus IS.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2011 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
| Model | Impala | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3900 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
