2003 Lexus IS vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 4 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 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 53 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
