2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 22 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 2003 Lexus IS | |
Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
Model | Jetta | IS |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 196 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |