1998 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1998 Ford Taurus. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus, 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, 2006 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Taurus. (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Taurus | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
