1983 Ford Escort vs. 1996 Lexus GS
To start off, 1996 Lexus GS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus GS (205 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus GS weights approximately 770 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lexus GS 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 1996 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1996 Lexus GS (275 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 1996 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | GS |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| 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 | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2810 mm |
