2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP) has 127 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 546 kg more than 2005 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2002 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Fiesta. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 2002 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Fiesta | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 994 kg | 1540 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 66 L |
