2008 Lexus IS vs. 1991 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (43 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 655 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1991 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, 2008 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Polo. (76 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1991 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 20.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 850 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
