2001 Lexus RX vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus RX would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2001 Lexus RX. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus RX weights approximately 302 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2001 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus RX. (283 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus RX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus RX | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2712 mm |
