2001 Lexus SC vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Lexus SC is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus SC (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus SC weights approximately 567 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2001 Lexus SC (441 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus SC | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | SC | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1742 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
