2004 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2004 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus IS weights approximately 20 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Lexus IS. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2004 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2004 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Lexus IS | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | IS | Beetle |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
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 | 195 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |