2008 Lexus LS vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Lexus LS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus LS (279 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus LS weights approximately 735 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Lexus LS 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 LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 LS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Lexus LS 2002 Volkswagen Golf
Make Lexus Volkswagen
Model LS Golf
Year Released 2008 2002
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4293 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 279 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 417 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1840 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 5030 mm 4148 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1735 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2930 mm 2512 mm