1986 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Lexus GS
To start off, 1998 Lexus GS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus GS (290 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus GS weights approximately 830 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1998 Lexus GS (415 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1998 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1998 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | GS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 415 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
