2008 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (150 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 195 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus. 2012 Lexus IS 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. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Focus | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
