2009 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 8 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 124 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 210 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 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, 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, 2001 Lexus IS (298 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2001 Lexus IS 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. 2001 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
