2006 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Lexus IS

To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. Both 2006 Ford Focus and 2003 Lexus IS are equipped with a 1,988 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 187 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Ford Focus 2003 Lexus IS
Make Ford Lexus
Model Focus IS
Year Released 2006 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1988 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 178 Nm 196 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.8 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 75 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1213 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4410 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 70 L