2008 Lexus GS vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus GS (246 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus GS weights approximately 448 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Lexus GS 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 2008 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2008 Lexus GS (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Lexus GS 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Lexus Volkswagen
Model GS Jetta
Year Released 2008 2009
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2994 cc 2480 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 246 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 19.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1695 kg 1247 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4560 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.8 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 71 L 55 L