1997 Lexus LS vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,967 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus LS (280 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus LS weights approximately 430 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Lexus LS (398 Nm) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 1997 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus LS | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | LS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3967 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 398 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.3 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.5 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
