1998 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 271 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2003 Lexus IS | |
Make | Ford | Lexus |
Model | Focus | IS |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 196 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |