1998 Audi A3 vs. 2000 Lexus IS
To start off, 2000 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Lexus IS weights approximately 260 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Lexus IS 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 2000 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3, 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, 2000 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2000 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2000 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
