2002 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2011 Lexus LS
To start off, 2011 Lexus LS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus LS (380 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus LS weights approximately 595 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Lexus LS 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 2011 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2011 Lexus LS (497 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2011 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2011 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
| Model | New Beetle | LS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 380 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 497 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1973 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1875 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 84 L |
