2002 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2002 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 7 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus IS. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 2002 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2002 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | GTI |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
