2006 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 60 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New 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, 2001 Lexus IS (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2001 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
| Model | New Beetle | IS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2324 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
