2005 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 164 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2005 Lexus IS (310 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
