1983 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf 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 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 697 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1983 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 IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (129 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
Model | Golf | IS |
Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1567 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |