1983 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Lexus LS
To start off, 2003 Lexus LS is newer by 20 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 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus LS (282 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus LS weights approximately 880 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 2003 Lexus LS 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 LS. 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, 2003 Lexus LS (418 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 2003 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | LS |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 418 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2930 mm |
