2008 Lexus RX vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus RX (271 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 860 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 RX (340 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus RX | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
