2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Lexus GX
To start off, 2012 Lexus GX is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus GX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus GX (301 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GX should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus GX weights approximately 1122 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Lexus GX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Lexus GX (446 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus GX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Lexus GX | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
| Model | Golf | GX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 446 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 2406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4806 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1885 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 87 L |
