2003 Lexus IS vs. 2011 Volkswagen CC

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen CC is newer by 8 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen CC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen CC (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen CC should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen CC weights approximately 117 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, 2011 Volkswagen CC, 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 Volkswagen CC (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen CC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Lexus IS 2011 Volkswagen CC
Make Lexus Volkswagen
Model IS CC
Year Released 2003 2011
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1988 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 153 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 196 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 1700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1400 kg 1517 kg
Vehicle Length 4410 mm 4798 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1854 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1417 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 70 L