1996 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,608 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (376 HP) has 302 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 546 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus LS 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 2009 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 Lexus LS (493 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2009 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2009 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escort | LS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 4608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 376 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 493 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1880 mm |
