2005 Lexus ES vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Lexus ES is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus ES (225 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus ES weights approximately 415 kg more than 1997 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 (325 Nm) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm). This means 2005 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | ES | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
