1985 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Lexus GS
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (279 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 685 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2009 Lexus GS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2009 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2009 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | GS |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 279 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 417 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
