2008 Lexus IS vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 750 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Lexus IS | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | IS | Jetta |
Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 211 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 288 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 141 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 865 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |