1998 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Lexus GS
To start off, 2012 Lexus GS is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus GS (303 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus GS weights approximately 581 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 2012 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 2012 Lexus GS. 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, 2012 Lexus GS (371 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2012 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2012 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | GS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1721 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4826 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 71 L |
