2009 Lexus IS vs. 1989 TVR 400
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR 400 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1989 TVR 400. (275 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1989 TVR 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 590 kg more than 1989 TVR 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2009 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 TVR 400. (366 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 TVR 400. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1989 TVR 400 has manual transmission. 1989 TVR 400 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 | 1989 TVR 400 | |
| Make | Lexus | TVR |
| Model | IS | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3454 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 376 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2420 mm |
