2009 Lexus LS vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (358 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 448 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2009 Lexus LS (466 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus LS | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | LS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 358 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 466 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 62 L |
