2003 Lexus ES vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Lexus ES is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 105 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus ES weights approximately 330 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 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 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | ES | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
