1989 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2008 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | IS |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
