2009 Lexus IS vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza 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 117 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 520 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 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, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (151 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Stanza has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Stanza 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 | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | IS | Stanza |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2480 mm |
