1988 Lexus LS vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (238 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lexus LS weights approximately 267 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1988 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lexus LS | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | LS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2470 mm |
