2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Lexus ES
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 170 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 1997 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1997 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | ES |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
