1999 Lexus IS vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1999 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 37 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1999 Lexus IS 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus IS | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
