2007 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 10 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 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 334 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 2007 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 2007 Lexus IS. 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lexus IS. (252 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
