2007 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 282 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lexus IS. (252 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lexus IS. 2007 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
