1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 10 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), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 261 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Focus | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
