2009 Lexus IS vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 770 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Cherry, 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, 2009 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Cherry. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1978 Nissan Cherry has manual transmission. 1978 Nissan Cherry will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | IS | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2400 mm |
