2002 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 295 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Volkswagen Golf | 2003 Lexus IS | |
Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
Model | Golf | IS |
Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 196 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4148 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1735 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2512 mm | 2680 mm |