1998 Lexus GS vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1998 Lexus GS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus GS (290 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus GS weights approximately 750 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 1998 Lexus GS (415 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 1998 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lexus GS | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | GS | Santana |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 290 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 415 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2560 mm |