2009 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada

To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Verada would be higher. At 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada, 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 (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Verada.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Lexus IS 1997 Mitsubishi Verada
Make Lexus Mitsubishi
Model IS Verada
Year Released 2009 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4969 cc 3497 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 416 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 503 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 5200 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 7 seats
Vehicle Weight 1700 kg 1510 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4940 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2730 mm