1996 Lexus SC vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus SC weights approximately 258 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lexus SC 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 1996 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1996 Lexus SC (370 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 1996 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus SC | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | SC | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 55 L |
