2001 Lexus IS vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Lexus IS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (225 HP) has 166 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 550 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2001 Lexus IS (298 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
