2001 Ford Cougar vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Cougar would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (270 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2001 Ford Cougar. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 176 kg more than 2001 Ford Cougar. 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, 2001 Ford Cougar, 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, 2001 Ford Cougar (298 Nm) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Cougar | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Cougar | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1279 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
