2002 Lexus IS vs. 1975 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 545 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus IS 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 2002 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. (114 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 1975 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
