1991 Lexus LS vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1991 Lexus LS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lexus LS weights approximately 995 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1991 Lexus LS (351 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lexus LS | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | LS | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2410 mm |
