2003 Lexus IS vs. 1988 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 525 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Lexus IS | 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | IS | Jetta |
Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 196 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |