2009 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 376 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | IS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2231 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 15.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
