2003 Lexus RX vs. 2001 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Lexus RX is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus RX (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus RX weights approximately 340 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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 RX (284 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Passat. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus RX | 2001 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
