2004 Lexus IS vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus IS weights approximately 277 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lexus IS | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| 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 | 1123 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
