1978 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Lexus RX
To start off, 2009 Lexus RX is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,439 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus RX (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1978 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus RX weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1978 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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 Lexus RX (340 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Escort. 2009 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Escort | 2009 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | RX |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 938 cc | 3439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 73 L |
