2006 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 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, 2006 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2006 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2006 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Lexus IS | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | IS | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 195 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2512 mm |