2008 Lexus IS vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 325 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
