2001 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 11 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 80 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2012 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, 2001 Lexus IS (298 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Lexus IS | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | IS | Jetta |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 240 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2651 mm |