2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 685 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2008 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. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
