2006 Lexus IS vs. 1985 Ford Tempo

To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (90 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 400 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Tempo, 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, 2006 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo. 1985 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2006 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2006 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Lexus IS 1985 Ford Tempo
Make Lexus Ford
Model IS Tempo
Year Released 2006 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1988 cc 2307 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 153 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 195 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 75.1 mm 96 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 79.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2540 mm