1997 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 487 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Escort | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Ford | Lexus |
Model | Escort | IS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1567 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |