1998 Ford Focus vs. 2009 Lexus GS

To start off, 2009 Lexus GS is newer by 11 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (246 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 505 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 2009 Lexus GS 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 GS. 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, 2009 Lexus GS (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2009 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Focus 2009 Lexus GS
Make Ford Lexus
Model Focus GS
Year Released 1998 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1388 cc 2993 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 246 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.5 mm 83 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 11.5:1
Top Speed 171 km/hour 240 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 14.6 seconds 7.2 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1115 kg 1620 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 71 L