1997 Lexus GS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus GS (205 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 72 kg more than 1997 Lexus GS.
Because 1997 Lexus GS 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 1997 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Lexus GS. (275 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Lexus GS. 1997 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus GS | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2919 mm |
