2003 Lexus ES vs. 1981 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 2003 Lexus ES is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus ES (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1981 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 285 kg more than 2003 Lexus ES.
Because 1981 Lincoln Continental 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 1981 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lexus ES, 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, 2003 Lexus ES (325 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lincoln Continental. (313 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lincoln Continental.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus ES | 1981 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | Lexus | Lincoln |
| Model | ES | Continental |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3314 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2990 mm |
