2003 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 281 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2005 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2005 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
