2006 Lexus RX vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Lexus RX is newer by 28 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus RX (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus RX weights approximately 791 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.
Because 2006 Lexus RX 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 2006 Lexus RX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2006 Lexus RX (283 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Lexus RX 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. 2006 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus RX | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 45 L |
