2002 Audi S3 vs. 2003 Lexus RX
To start off, 2003 Lexus RX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Lexus RX. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus RX weights approximately 442 kg more than 2002 Audi S3.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Lexus RX (284 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3. 2003 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2003 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | S3 | RX |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 284 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
