2006 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 5 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2001 Lexus IS.
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, 2006 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 (298 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2001 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
