2009 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Lexus SC
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 Lexus SC. (242 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Lexus SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Lexus SC. 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus SC. (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lexus SC.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lexus IS | 1997 Lexus SC | |
Make | Lexus | Lexus |
Model | IS | SC |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3454 cc | 3969 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 306 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 376 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |