1985 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2010 Lexus GS
To start off, 2010 Lexus GS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus GS (342 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus GS weights approximately 762 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Lexus GS 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 2010 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2010 Lexus GS (459 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 2010 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | 2010 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
| Model | Jetta | GS |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 978 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2850 mm |
