2009 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 291 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS. 2011 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Focus | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1451 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
