Especificaciones y análisis del Lexus IS
Power
155HP
Torque
195Nm
Consumption
-l/100
Emissions
-g/km
0-100 km/h
9.5s
Top Speed
215km/h
Weight
1435kg
Price
26,565€
Technical summary
Gasolina
Manual 6v
RWD
5 / 4 doors
400 L
70 L
114 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the Lexus IS-200 · 155 CV (1999-2000)
General description
In the late 90s, Lexus threw down the gauntlet to the German kings of the segment. The IS 200 was not just a sedan, it was a statement of intent: a six-cylinder heart, rear-wheel drive, and legendary Japanese reliability, all wrapped in a bold and different suit. It was born to thrill and challenge the established order.
Driving experience
Driving the IS 200 is a purely analog and rewarding experience. Its inline-six engine doesn't seek brute force, but smoothness and a linear power delivery that invites you to rev it up. The six-speed manual transmission, with a mechanical and precise feel, is the perfect accomplice to an agile and balanced chassis. The rear-wheel drive connects you to the asphalt, conveying a sense of control and fun that has been lost in many modern cars. It's a car that is felt, not just driven.
Design and aesthetics
The design of the IS 200 broke molds and created a trend. Its compact and muscular silhouette was distinguished by a detail that defined an era: the 'Altezza' style taillights, with their chrome background and clear cover. Inside, the inspiration from luxury watchmaking is evident in its spectacular instrument cluster, a piece of craftsmanship that makes you feel like you're in a special car. Every line and every detail spoke of sportiness and a unique personality.
Technology and features
The technology of the IS 200 lay in its brilliant mechanical engineering rather than in screens or assists. The soul of the car is its 1G-FE engine with VVT-i variable valve timing, a gem of smoothness and reliability. The 6-speed gearbox and a finely tuned chassis with double-wishbone suspension were its true technological calling card, focused on offering exceptional driving dynamics and a build quality that guaranteed extraordinary durability.
Competition
The target of the Lexus IS 200 was clear and direct: the BMW 3 Series E46. It faced the benchmark in dynamism with the same weapons, a six-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive, but adding the exotic touch and reliability of Lexus. It also competed against the comfort of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the traction of the Audi A4, but the IS 200 always played in its own league, that of those who sought an alternative with soul and its own character, far from the conventional.
Conclusion
The Lexus IS 200 is much more than just a two-decade-old sedan; it is a modern classic that represents a golden age of Japanese motoring. It managed to combine the refinement and reliability of Lexus with a passion and sporty character that captivated a whole generation. Today, its pure driving experience, its iconic design, and the sound of its six-cylinder engine evoke a deep nostalgia for cars made with soul and for the sheer pleasure of driving.