2002 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP) has 349 more horse power than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 578 kg more than 2002 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Fiesta, 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 IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Fiesta | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 416 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 503 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
