2009 Lexus IS vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 775 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus IS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS 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, 2009 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
