2003 Lexus IS vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTD 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 GTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTD (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTD should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen GTD weights approximately 9 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 GTD, 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 GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTD 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 GTD | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | GTD |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| 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 | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
