1986 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 25 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 742 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 2011 Lexus IS 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 2011 Lexus IS. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2011 Lexus IS 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. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | IS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 65 L |
