1998 Lexus GS vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus GS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus GS (290 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus GS weights approximately 336 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1998 Lexus GS (415 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 1998 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus GS | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 415 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
