1980 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 1998 Lexus ES is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP) has 169 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 670 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | ES |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 218 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
