1997 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 780 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. 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 Ford Ka, 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 2009 Lexus IS | |
Make | Ford | Lexus |
Model | Ka | IS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2231 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 96 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |