2009 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lexus LS weights approximately 885 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Lexus LS 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 1988 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1988 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1988 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 1988 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1988 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | LS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2820 mm |
