2004 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 195 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2001 Lexus IS (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
