1985 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Lexus IS

To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 26 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP) has 155 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 777 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 2011 Lexus IS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2011 Lexus IS 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. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Ford Escort 2011 Lexus IS
Make Ford Lexus
Model Escort IS
Year Released 1985 2011
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1117 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 49 HP 204 HP
Torque 84 Nm 251 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front AWD
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 790 kg 1567 kg
Vehicle Length 4040 mm 4585 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1801 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2731 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 65 L