1999 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (248 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 460 kg more than 1999 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4, 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 IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A4 | IS |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
