1981 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 586 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort, 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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 2003 Lexus IS | |
Make | Ford | Lexus |
Model | Escort | IS |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 296 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2680 mm |