2009 Ford Escape vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 153 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 434 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape, 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 IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Escape. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Escape | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
