2007 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Lexus IS

To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 372 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Volkswagen Polo 2012 Lexus IS
Make Volkswagen Lexus
Model Polo IS
Year Released 2007 2012
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1894 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 99 HP 204 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 251 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1195 kg 1567 kg
Vehicle Length 3920 mm 4585 mm
Vehicle Width 1660 mm 1801 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2731 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 65 L