2000 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2000 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Lexus IS weights approximately 190 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2000 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2000 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Lexus IS | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
