2003 Lexus IS vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 70 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (296 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
