2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Lexus GS
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus GS (205 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus GS weights approximately 443 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Lexus GS (275 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 1997 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1997 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Focus | GS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1279 kg | 1722 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
