2009 Lexus LS vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (381 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2009 Lexus LS 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 LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 LS (498 Nm) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2009 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus LS | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
| Model | LS | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 381 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 498 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2480 mm |
