1998 Lexus ES vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus ES would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Lexus ES. (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 465 kg more than 1998 Lexus ES. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus ES. 1998 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | ES | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2890 mm |
