2005 Lexus ES vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Lexus ES is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus ES (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus ES weights approximately 804 kg more than 1978 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, 2005 Lexus ES (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus ES | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | ES | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
