2003 Lexus IS vs. 2010 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 7 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 696 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (351 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2010 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 2003 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2003 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 2010 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Routan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 2096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 78 L |
