2002 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (216 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 277 kg more than 2002 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1482 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
