2003 Lexus IS vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS 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 5 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 160 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Lexus IS | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | IS | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |