2005 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 1 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 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 (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 2005 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2005 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
