2008 Lexus SC vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,291 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus SC (282 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus SC weights approximately 320 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Lexus SC 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 SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 SC (419 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Lexus SC 2012 Volkswagen Golf
Make Lexus Volkswagen
Model SC Golf
Year Released 2008 2012
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4291 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 282 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 419 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1815 kg 1495 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4534 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 55 L