2004 Ford Taurus vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 103 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (281 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (247 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Taurus | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1503 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
