2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2005 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2005 Lexus IS. 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, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2005 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
