2006 Lexus IS vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 795 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2006 Lexus IS (289 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
