1998 Lexus GS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus GS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus GS weights approximately 372 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 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, 1998 Lexus GS (301 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
