1988 Lexus LS vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lexus LS weights approximately 513 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Lexus LS 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 1988 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1988 Lexus LS (350 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1988 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lexus LS | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | LS | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2510 mm |
