2005 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 316 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2011 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
| Model | Golf | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
