2003 Lexus LS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus LS would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus LS (282 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus LS weights approximately 450 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Lexus LS 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 LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2003 Lexus LS (418 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. 2003 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus LS | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | LS | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 418 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 55 L |
