2006 Lexus GS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus GS (217 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.

Because 2006 Lexus GS 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 2006 Lexus GS. 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, 2006 Lexus GS (294 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2006 Lexus GS 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. 2006 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Lexus GS 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Lexus Volkswagen
Model GS Jetta
Year Released 2006 2012
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2997 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 217 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 4000 RPM
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 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4644 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1778 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1482 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2651 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 55 L