2009 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 470 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 1999 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 1999 Lexus IS. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lexus IS. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 1999 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1999 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1988 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
