2009 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 170 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 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2011 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. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Audi | Lexus |
| Model | A3 | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
