2008 Lexus GS vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 5 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 49 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus GS weights approximately 315 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2008 Lexus GS (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 2008 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
Make Lexus Volkswagen
Model GS Beetle
Year Released 2008 2013
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2994 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 246 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83 mm 93 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 9.6:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1695 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4277 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1808 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1486 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2537 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 71 L 55 L