2008 Lexus IS 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 IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2008 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
