2008 Ford Focus vs. 1988 Lexus LS

To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lexus LS weights approximately 705 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Lexus LS 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 1988 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1988 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus. 1988 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Focus 1988 Lexus LS
Make Ford Lexus
Model Focus LS
Year Released 2008 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 3969 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 140 HP 242 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 184 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1110 kg 1815 kg
Vehicle Length 4450 mm 5000 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2820 mm