2009 Saturn Vue vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Saturn Vue. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Saturn Vue would be higher. At 2,384 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Vue is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Vue (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (150 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Vue should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Vue, 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, 2012 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Vue. (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Vue.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Vue | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Saturn | Lexus |
| Model | Vue | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2384 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1801 mm |
