2007 Lexus IS vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 825 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2007 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (102 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 2007 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2480 mm |
