2001 Lexus IS vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2001 Lexus IS. (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 590 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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 Phaeton (320 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus IS. (298 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus IS | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2850 mm |
