1979 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Lexus LS
To start off, 2012 Lexus LS is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus LS (380 HP) has 321 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus LS weights approximately 1168 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Golf, 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 LS (497 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Lexus LS | |
Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
Model | Golf | LS |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1272 cc | 4600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 380 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 497 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1973 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 5060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1875 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1476 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2969 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 84 L |