2008 Lexus RX vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus RX (268 HP) has 215 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 1285 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (840 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 744 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3311 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 840 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2115 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
