1986 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Lexus GS

To start off, 2003 Lexus GS is newer by 17 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus GS (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus GS weights approximately 750 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Lexus GS (296 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2003 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. 2003 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2003 Lexus GS
Make Ford Lexus
Model Escort GS
Year Released 1986 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 2995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 215 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 296 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 151 km/hour 230 km/hour
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 1660 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 75 L