2003 Lexus ES vs. 1978 Volkswagen Citi

To start off, 2003 Lexus ES is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus ES (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (94 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus ES weights approximately 612 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 ES (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. 2003 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Citi has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Citi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Lexus ES 1978 Volkswagen Citi
Make Lexus Volkswagen
Model ES Citi
Year Released 2003 1978
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2995 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 208 HP 94 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 948 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 3820 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm