1999 Lexus SC vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus SC would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 97 kg more than 1999 Lexus SC.
Because 1999 Lexus SC 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 1999 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus SC. (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus SC. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1999 Lexus SC has manual transmission. 1999 Lexus SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus SC | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | SC | Passat |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
