2003 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 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), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 17 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | IS | Jetta |
Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
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 | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1417 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |