2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Lexus RX
To start off, 2012 Lexus RX is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus RX (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus RX weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Lexus RX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 RX (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
| Model | Passat | RX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
