1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2003 Lexus RX
To start off, 2003 Lexus RX is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus RX (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus RX weights approximately 715 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Tempo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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 RX (284 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 2003 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Tempo | RX |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 284 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2620 mm |
