2002 Lexus RX vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus RX would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus RX (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus RX weights approximately 519 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 2002 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Lexus RX (283 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Lexus RX 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. 2002 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus RX | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
