2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 332 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 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, 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
