1999 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Lexus SC

To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus SC would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1999 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus SC weights approximately 235 kg more than 1999 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Lexus SC 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 1998 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1998 Lexus SC (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Focus. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Ford Focus 1998 Lexus SC
Make Ford Lexus
Model Focus SC
Year Released 1999 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1753 cc 2997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 99 HP 225 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 290 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79 mm 86.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.4 mm 86 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1240 kg 1475 kg
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 4870 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2700 mm