2008 Ford S-Max 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 S-Max. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford S-Max would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (204 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 114 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 S-Max, 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2008 Ford S-Max 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 S-Max | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | S-Max | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
