2005 Lexus SC vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Lexus SC 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus SC weights approximately 249 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.
Because 2005 Lexus SC 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 2005 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus SC. (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus SC | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | SC | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
