2008 Lexus IS vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 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 96 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 249 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
