1988 Ford Tempo vs. 2002 Lexus SC
To start off, 2002 Lexus SC is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 4,291 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (278 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 590 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus SC 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 2002 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Ford Tempo, 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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 2002 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Tempo | SC |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 4291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 278 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.6 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2630 mm |
