1997 Lexus LS vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,967 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus LS (280 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus LS weights approximately 600 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1997 Lexus LS (398 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus LS | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | LS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3967 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 398 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 16.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
