2009 Lexus GS vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (303 HP) has 250 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 890 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus GS 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 2009 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 Lexus GS (372 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus GS | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | GS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2480 mm |
