2003 Lexus SC vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,294 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus SC (290 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2003 Lexus SC 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 SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2003 Lexus SC (447 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2003 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus SC | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | SC | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4294 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1453 mm |
